United States Marine Corps

Press Release
Division of Public Affairs
Headquarters, U. S. Marine Corps
Washington, D. C. 20380-1775
Telephone: 703-614-4309 DSN 224-4309 Fax 703-695-7460
Contact: CONTACT: Elaine Krackau, ekrackau@austin.rr.com, (512) 733-5145

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Release # 0421-05-0650
April 21, 2005

Vietnam Vets finally welcomed home

BRANSON, Mo.--When troops arrive from Iraq after being deployed for a year, they are welcomed home to fanfare, television cameras and large parties. However, the Vietnam War was the only war in American history whose participants were never welcomed home. For the most part, the soldiers were deployed as individuals, not as units, and they came home alone - not to a welcome, but to bricks, taunts and protests.

This summer, as American soldiers fight the Iraqi war overseas, there will finally be a true homecoming for Vietnam veterans. Branson, Missouri, a town with a history of honoring veterans, is hosting Operation Homecoming USA June 13-19. With seed money provided by Ross Perot and other generous corporations, this event, which coincides with the 30th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, will host many of the USO acts who performed in-country, including The Beach Boys, Creedence Clearwater, Tony Orlando and a dozen more.

Decorated Vietnam veteran, Robert Vaughan, is a spokesperson for the event . Vaughan is the author of Brandywine's War: Back in Country (Skyward Publishing, April 2005, $19.95), an iconoclastic novel about helicopter flying inVietnam. This book is a sequel to his 1971 best selling novel, Brandywine's War, which he wrote while serving in Vietnam.

"This will be a true homecoming for those of us who carried the flag through the longest war in America's history - then came home to radical groups of people who threw bricks and spat upon us," says Vaughan. "Through the welcome home celebration we will finally be able to say out loud that we, too, served our country with dignity, pride and honor."

Vaughan is a sought-after speaker and author of more than 250 books. He is currently writing a documentary film about the Vietnam veteran for The History Channel.

For more information on the event, please visit www.operationhomecomingusa.com.

United States Marine Corps

Press Release
Public Affairs Office
Marine Corps Systems Command; ; Marine Corps Systems Command,
Capt. J. Landis
2200 Lester Street
Quantico, Virginia 22134-6054
Comm: 703-432-3794/3785; DSN 378-3794/3785; Fax: 703-432-3486
Contact:

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Release # 0510-05-1435

Body Armor Concerns
May 9, 2005

QUANTICO, Va. -- The Marine Corps’ first concern is the safety and physical protection of our individual Marines.

The facts as presented in the Marine Corps Times article published on May 9 regarding the Outer Tactical Vest have been taken out of context and misrepresent the actual capabilities of the OTVs in question. This article casts doubt on whether or not the OTV can stop a 9 mm round fired from a standard pistol such as the M-9 Berretta. The United States Marine Corps maintains that the OTV system is capable of defeating the 9 mm and other ballistic threats, in addition to providing protection from shrapnel and fragmentation.

Additional facts on the OTV system follow:

The lots in question were urgently needed and fielded when Marines were ordered back into Iraq in spring and fall of 2004. The OTVs in every instance are a significant improvement in protection from the outdated Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops flak jacket they replaced. The decision to waive these lots was made in order to provide the best available individual protection equipment as Marines were rotating back into harm’s way. The OTV is the base component of the Interceptor Body Armor System that also includes Small Arms Protective Inserts that protect against direct fire from assault rifles, and the Armor Protection Enhancement System that guards the neck, arms, and groin.

Because we knew this article was forthcoming and could potentially sow seeds of doubt in the minds of Marines in active combat, we concluded the only way to rapidly remove these doubts was to recall the lots in question. However, we maintain these vests are effective at meeting the threat posed by 9 mm pistol rounds. Present combat operations preclude us from retesting at this time to prove to our Marines these vests are effective. Therefore, we initiated the recall.

Of the approximately 19,000 vests the Marine Corps Times addresses, 5,277 vests are subject to recall. Additionally, of the then remaining 14, 000 vests questioned by the article, 10,000 vests are from lots that have never been accepted or fielded by the Marine Corps. In turn, of the remaining 4,000 vests, approximately 3,000 vests passed all quality and testing standards without requiring a waiver. The remaining 992 vests (two lots) also passed all quality and testing standards but were held for release by the Natick contracting officer because they were in the same production run as the recalled lots. Consequently, in order to get these 992 vests (two lots) released they had to be fielded with a perfunctory waiver to expedite their delivery to the Operating Forces.

Operation Iraqi Freedom casualty data gathered from the Office of the Armed Forces Medical Examiner and the Navy/Marine Corps Combat Trauma Registry proves that the OTV, a part of the Interceptor Body Armor System, is highly effective in reducing the number of lethal and non-lethal wounds to the chest and abdomen. This system is the most revolutionary personal protection system fielded to warriors in the past several decades.

To date the Marine Corps has fielded more than 181,000 OTVs to Marines in the fleet. The recalled 5,277 OTVs in question represent less than three percent of the total number fielded.

We would expect the concerned mothers and fathers of America to want their sons and daughters to have the best possible protection available when they deployed and entered into combat. Consequently, we don’t believe that they would have wanted their Marines to deploy to Iraq with the obsolete PASGT vest while we wait for a 100% solution when a 99.9% solution was at hand.

http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf...ev1TextOnly.doc

A well informed individual is ignorance's worst enemy.

United States Marine Corps

Press Release
Public Affairs Office
Multi-National Force-West;

cepaowo@cemnf-wiraq.usmc.mil
Contact:

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Release # 0518-05-0630

Fallujah Holds Its First City Council Meeting

May 17, 2005

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq -- The first democratically-elected city council of Fallujah held its inaugural meeting today at the Civil-Military Operations Center in Fallujah.

The 20-member council met for approximately two hours, during which time they elected the chairman, vice chairman and secretary of the council. Imams, sheiks, engineers, lawyers, educators, administrators and businessmen are among those who make up the council.

Sheik Khalid Hammoud Mahal al-Joumaily, newly-elected chairman, said “We are happy with the free democratic process which led to a successful election.”

Mohamed Hussain Alzobai, representative of the Provincial Council, attended the meeting and offered words of encouragement to the Fallujah City Council. “You are the ones selected to represent the people of Fallujah and we hope your intent is good for the people of Fallujah,” said Alzobai. “You must do what you can to encourage the people to vote in the upcoming election.”

I'll bet these are the same articles they send to Stars and Stripes.

Muxsters keep communications flowing throughout Iraq
Submitted by: 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing
Story Identification #: 200552175934
Story by Cpl. Rocco DeFilippis


AL ASAD, Iraq (May 21, 2005) -- In today’s Marine Corps, communication between the separate entities is essential for planning and executing operations. The ability of units to communicate across the vast expanses of Iraq becomes crucial to operations throughout the country.

The Marines of Marine Wing Communication Squadron 28’s multi-channel radio
operators platoon ensure the constant flow of data throughout the 2nd Marine Aircraft
Wing (Forward) area of operations.

The multi-channel radio, or MUX, operators allow service members at outlying
posts to communicate with higher headquarters here and throughout the area of
operations.

“We provide the ability for everything from tactical data transfer to non-secure
telephone,” said Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Tower, multi-channel radio operator and native of
Parsippany, N.J. “We allow the distant ends to communicate.”

Basically, communications Marines in a forward operating base combine all the
forms of communications, internet and phones, into one signal through a process called
multiplexing.

Satellite transmitters then bounce the signal off the troposphere, a layer of the
atmosphere that extends 46,000 feet above ground. The MUX Marines here receive the
combined signal and route it to another section in MWCS-28 who decodes it and passes it
on to the agencies within the wing who need it to plan and coordinate the mission.

“Because the MAW is spread throughout Iraq, open lines of communication are
essential,” said Sgt. Michael T. Fitzgerald, multi-channel radio operator and native of
Owensboro, Ky. “Without the capabilities we provide, Marines out there could not
coordinate air and ground support, plan and track missions or even make a phone call
home.”

One of the challenges the Marines face is the fact that the troposphere adjusts
throughout the day. In order to get maximum efficiency for transmission the equipment
must be able to reach the troposphere.

“The troposphere lowers each night,” said Lance Cpl. Bradley E. Ellis, multi-
channel radio operator and native of Bismark, Ill. “We have to adjust the signal and the
equipment to ensure the data continues to flow.”

In addition to providing communication to remote areas, the Marines of the MUX
platoon allow units across Al Asad to communicate with the command center here.

The communications Marines use the transmitters to provide wireless
communication here.

“Instead of having to run miles of wire or fiber optic cable, our equipment
provides wireless avenues of communication across the air base,” Tower said. “Not only
do we ensure Marines hundreds of miles away can communicate with the command
center, but Marines on the other side of the base too.”

As operations continue throughout the Marine Corps’ area of responsibility, the
efforts of the communications community remain paramount to the success of the
mission. From MUX and wire, to radio, data and maintenance — each section ensures the
communications light is green.

“[In communications,] everyone has their part,” said Staff Sgt. JohnDavid S.
Acuff, MUX staff noncommissioned officer-in-charge and native of Kings Mountain,
N.C. “Each part is equally important — because without each piece, the entire chain will
go down.”

“The whole point is to support the Marines on the ground,” Ellis said. “We take
great pride in our job, knowing that what we do allows the MAW to perform like it does
each day.”

*For more information about the Marines or news reported on in this
story, please contact Cpl. Rocco DeFilippis by e-mail at defilippisrc@acemnf-
wiraq.usmc.mil*



I see a couple of names of folks I used to work with, glad they are doing such a fine job. OOOOOHHHHRAHHH!

Field radio operators are division’s information foundation

Submitted by: 2nd Marine Division
Story by: Computed Name: Sgt. Stephen D'Alessio
Story Identification #: 200551933157




AR RAMADI, Iraq(May 19, 2005) -- In the age of information, emerging technology is ever more present in the military’s combat theater. But sometimes it’s old tech that keeps the tempo high – especially for Marines of Radio Platoon, Headquarters Battalion, 2nd Marine Division where Sgt. Janna Klehm works.

Klehm, a 20-year-old field radio operator from Brenham, Texas, and her platoon of approximately 40 Marines are responsible for the exchange of information between units outside the camp’s wire and the command post here. Their jobs aren’t just limited to speaking over a radio handset though. These Marines are integrated within many of the units working out of Camp Blue Diamond.

The platoon has a main cell that monitors all radio traffic and feeds it to the combat operations center. The transmissions come from all over the division’s area of responsibility in the Al Anbar Province. In turn, the Marines, sailors and soldiers who work in the COC can use the information to shape their battle plans.

“Radio platoon is just a small piece of the communications pie,” said Klehm, a 2002 Brenham High School graduate. “But we’re one of the most needed,” she added.

Her Marines are scattered throughout the camp filling jobs as radio operators for convoys that pick up personnel and equipment from other bases. The journeys take them along dangerous highways often lined with improvised explosive devices and insurgent attackers.

Some of the Marines are trained to venture into that dangerous territory to reestablish communications should the computer network shut down. These Marines are part of a subunit of the platoon simply called the ‘Forward.’ It is comprised of radio operators who set up a provisional communications section wherever the commander needs it on the battlefield.

It may be dangerous, but her Marines are constantly learning. Some of them have even been through combat situations in the past, which makes her unit well suited for the job.

“The MOS (military occupational specialty) has slightly evolved recently,” said Klehm. “We use a system that is half radio, half computer to retrieve and send information – rather than the traditional VHF or UHF radio transmissions that are often fuzzy and slow to use.

“Email is faster and more efficient – and that seems to be where everything is going.”

Despite the need for quickness and efficiency, Klehm believes that radios are the foundation for battlefield communications. When email is out of commission, radios are always operable, according to Klehm.

“Even when people are sleeping, the radios are always up,” said Klehm. “And Marines are always with those radios, whether they’re on a convoy, a quick reaction force or any other company operating from here.”

With the mix of new and old technology, the Marines have been recently cross-training with their counterparts in the data sections, who manage the computer network that connects the entire division.

“We naturally become proficient in different MOSs within the communications field as we work together,” said Klehm. “We also extend that opportunity to all Marines here with weekly classes teaching radio operation. Email is great, but radios are the base for all of the division’s lines of communication.”

United States Marine Corps

Press Release
Division of Public Affairs
Headquarters, U. S. Marine Corps
Washington, D. C. 20380-1775
Telephone: 703-614-4309 DSN 224-4309 Fax 703-695-7460
Contact: Sara Grosvenor, Saragro@aol.com
202-255-1318

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Release # 0525-05-1301
May 24, 2005

TAPS helps military families cope with loss during Memorial weekend

WASHINGTON--The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors holds its 11th Annual TAPS National Military Survivor Seminar and its companion program, the Doof Grief Camp for young survivors May 26 to 30.

Located at the Double Tree Hotel in Arlington, Va., the seminar assists families facing the loss of loved ones who served in the Armed Forces.

With the survivor seminar as an integral part of its mission and services, TAPS is the sole, nonprofit organization to provide any military survivor with outreach assistance and companionship. Recognized by the Departments of Defense and Veterans’ Affairs as a Veterans Service Organization, TAPS is a 501c3, charitable corporation. TAPS receives referrals from government agencies, but no federal funding; it relies instead on corporate and private donations.

Expecting more than 100 children and 350 participants, the 2005 seminar will provide trauma and loss experts, counseling workshops, coping strategies, mentoring instruction, peer support and special events.

Chairman Bonnie Carroll founded TAPS in 1994 after gaining solace from other military wives. Her husband, Brig. Gen. Thomas Carroll, along with seven others, recently had died when their Army C-12 transport plane crashed in Alaska. Grateful for the support she’d found, Carroll, along with the TAPS team, is passionate about providing round-the-clock access to a network of peers, grief counselors, benefits’ information and crisis intervention.

Many seminar participants like Shelly Hall return annually to mentor others in bereavement. Hall had been left to raise five children under seven when her pilot husband perished in a C-12 accident in Germany The entire Hall family plans to attend, including eldest daughter Tyler, who connects with old friends while mentoring newly bereft children.

A member of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Association of Death Education and Counseling, and Military and Patriotic Service Organizations, TAPS provides support 24/7 at 1-800-959-TAPS (8277). At its online site, www.taps.org, TAPS hosts a weekly grief-support group. TAPS sponsors include CACI, TriWest Healthcare Alliance, Intellidyne, Militec-1, DoubleTree, Stewart and Stevenson.

St. Augustine native is back for more
Submitted by: 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing
Story Identification #: 2005524113827
Story by Cpl. Rocco DeFilippis



AL ASAD, Iraq (May 24, 2005) -- His whole life, James C. Saurman knew he wanted to be a military man — shoot guns, play in the mud, go to war.

After graduating from Alan D. Nease High School in May 2002, the St.
Augustine, Fla., native chose a path for his future that would allow him to do just that.

Saurman was a part of his high school’s Junior ROTC program and through the
mentorship of his instructors, chose to join the Marine Corps in early September 2001.

“I always knew I was going to be in the armed forces,” Cpl. Saurman said.
“However, after meeting my ROTC instructor, who was a retired Marine first sergeant, I
knew I wanted to be a Marine.”

Drawn to the history, discipline and traditions of the Corps, Saurman walked into
a Marine Corps recruiting office, a recruiter's dream.

“I told them I wanted to be a Marine and I wanted to be in the infantry,” he
recalled.

A bold and focused leader from the start, Saurman had a goal while at Marine
Corps recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C.

“I told my recruiters from the start, that I was going to become company honor
man, and graduate with a meritorious promotion,” Saurman said. “I said I wasn’t leaving
that island until I did.”

That is exactly what he did. On October 4, 2002, Saurman graduated Marine
recruit training as the honor man for Company F and earned a meritorious promotion to
the rank of lance corporal.

Later that month, he reported to the School of Infantry at Marine Corps Base
Camp Lejeune, N.C., where he spent three months learning the basics of infantry tactics,
techniques and procedures.

“The School of Infantry was a fun time, but learning was behind it all,” he said. “I
learned a lot from the instructors and staff.”

Saurman earned a Meritorious Mast after graduating from infantry training and
reported for duty with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment on December
6, 2002.

After a few short days of settling in and learning the ropes from the
noncommissioned officers and senior men in the company, the men of Company L found
out they were going to war.

“We found out during Christmas leave that we were going to Iraq,” he recalled.
“At the time, we were doing cold-weather training. So, we turned in all of our cold
weather gear for desert gear.”

During Operation Iraqi Freedom, Saurman was a light machine gunner for L Co.
first platoon. The company rolled out of Kuwait and into the Iraqi desert on March 20,
2003 in the back of 7-ton trucks.

Fresh from the School of Infantry, Saurman said it wasn’t his training he relied on
as much as it was the Marines he fought with.

“Training from SOI kicked in a little, but it was the leadership that got us
through,” he said. “Our NCOs and staff NCOs shared their knowledge and experience
with us.”

Pushing up from Kuwait through An Nasiriyah and finishing up in An
Numaniyah, Saurman said it was amazing to be a part of the historical operation that
toppled the regime of Saddam Hussein.

“It was a great experience, we made history,” he said. “Not many people can say
they were part of something like that.”

After six months in Iraq, his unit returned home to North Carolina for a well-
deserved but brief rest. Saurman’s battalion became designated as an anti-terrorism
battalion, and the men of Company L were packing for a deployment to Afghanistan.

According to Saurman, their tour in Afghanistan was the complete opposite of
their tour in Iraq. Saurman and the Marines of Company L guarded the American
Embassy in Kabul for six months as part of their new anti-terrorism role.

“It was definitely a change,” he recalled. “In Iraq, we were always on the move,
on the road or in combat. There, we were manning a tower or post. It was a different task,
but as our mission, we gave it our all.”

Returning home from his second deployment to support the Global War on
Terrorism, Saurman was chosen to attend the Advanced Infantry Squad Leaders School
at the School of Infantry. The two-month course is designed to teach and reinforce
leadership skills to infantry Marines preparing for the squad leader position.

“It was an awesome opportunity,” Saurman said of the course. “The instructors
taught us everything we needed to know to be a small unit leader and a leader of
Marines.”

After the course, Saurman and his company got word of a second deployment to
Afghanistan. However, Saurman would not go on this deployment due to a knee injury
from a motorcycle accident.

“I was in crutches, with all my gear and my pack, ready to go,” he said. “They
wouldn’t let me go, and it was hard to see everybody leave without me.”

In September, when his company returned from their third combat tour, a fully
recovered Saurman and his Marines began training for yet anther combat deployment. In
November, Saurman was promoted to his present rank.

Before the Marines shipped out, they were told that they would be serving a non-
traditional infantry role here in Al Asad.

That role was to augment the base defense operations center here. Since his
arrival, Saurman, and the Marines of Company L, have been conducting patrols through
the areas surrounding the base, guarding the ammunition supply point and serving as the
base’s quick reaction force.

Currently Saurman is serving with the quick reaction force, a team of Marines that
respond to emergencies on the base. The Marines are also the designated tactical recovery
of aircraft and personnel team in the event that an aircraft goes down.

“We are ensuring that the Marines here can do their job,” Saurman said. “The job
they do supports the Marines on the ground, and we allow them to do that without the
worry of base defense.”

“Those guys in the air are awesome,” he said. “Having air support is one of your
best assets. The air side is the infantrymen’s best friend, always has been, always will
be.”

Now half-way through his third deployment, Saurman said he is focusing on the
tasks at hand and training Lima’s next generation of leaders.

“We are focusing on doing our job the best we can,” he said. “This is also a great
environment to pass on the knowledge and experience we gained in the previous
deployments to the new Marines in the company.”

A solid leader, and overall good Marine, Saurman has earned the respect of his
peers and leadership.

“[Saurman] is a good Marine, extremely solid mentally and physically,” said
Capt. Sean M. Hankard, Lima Co. commanding officer. “As a man and a leader, he is
well respected by the Marines in his squad.”

This deployment should be the last for Saurman, who is planning to finish his four
year enlistment and become a firefighter in Martin County, Fla.

*For more information about the Marines or news reported on in this
story, please contact Cpl. Rocco DeFilippis by e-mail at defilippisrc@acemnf-
wiraq.usmc.mil*

Two Marines get big bucks, big news coverage for reenlisting
Submitted by: 2nd Marine Division
Story by: Computed Name: Cpl. Tom Sloan
Story Identification #: 2005524235555




CAMP HURRICANE POINT, AR RAMADI, Iraq(May 20, 2005) -- A reenlistment is a high point in a Marine’s career because it means they continue their dedicated service to Corps and country. A fat check and coverage by major TV news makes raising that right hand and swearing to support and defend even more special.

Such was the case for Lance Cpl. Michael P. Neal and Cpl. Nathan S. Southwick during their reenlistment ceremony here.

The two warriors with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, each received a bonus of approximately $20,000 and time on Fox News with Oliver North.

Oliver North and his two-man camera crew happened to be on their base – living here briefly while covering military operations in Ramadi – and got wind of their reenlistments.

The cameramen eagerly squeezed into the conference room, which was filled by more than 50 Marines who’d gathered to honor their comrades, set up their equipment and recorded the entire event. Both Marines had their photo taken shaking hands with the celebrity war correspondent after taking their oath of reenlistment.

Neal and Southwick are both machinegunners on their third deployment with the infantry battalion supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Money and 15 minutes of fame aside, both combat veterans were pleased to sign on for four more years and continue wearing the Eagle, Globe and Anchor.

“I love my job,” said Neal, a 21-year-old from Country Club Hills, Ill., who serves in the battalion commander’s Jump Platoon, which regularly travels about the urban battlefield in a convoy of humvees.

The 2001 Hillcrest High School graduate rides in the turret of an armored vehicle and is in charge of providing security with his M240G machinegun.

“I’m doing something very few people have a chance to,” said Neal. “At my age, I have a lot of responsibility. In the civilian world it’s rare for a 21-year-old to be trusted with the same level of responsibility.”

Neal was working as a freelance computer programmer designing web pages for small businesses when he decided to change professions in 2001.

“I literally woke up one morning and said to myself, ‘Hey, I’m going to join the Marines,’” he recalled. “I was getting bored with my job and wanted to do something the total opposite.”

Neal enlisted as a machinegunner and transitioned from typing on computers to pulling triggers. “I chose the infantry because I wanted to be in the action.”

Neal will leave his present unit and serve as an instructor at Edson Range on Camp Pendleton, Calif. when he returns stateside in September.

Neal collected $19,692 in tax-free bonus money, which will be paid in a lump sum. He plans to use it to support his family, he said.

Neal and his wife, Ciera, are expecting a girl in less than a month. “Her name is McKenzie Rose.”

Southwick shared Neal’s pleasure in reenlisting.

“I want to continue being an infantryman,” said the 21-year-old from El Cajon, Calif., who serves as a team leader in 1st Squad, 4th Platoon, Company A. “I like the fighting, the action and the brotherhood. The camaraderie with my fellow Marines is great.”

United States Marine Corps
Press Release
Public Affairs Office
2nd Marine Division Camp Blue Diamond, Ar Ramadi, Iraq; 2nd Marine Division

Camp Blue Diamond, Ar Ramadi, Iraq


cepaowo@cemnf-wiraq.usmc.mil
Contact:

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Release # 0525-05-0927

Operation New Market update
May 25, 2005

CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, Iraq -- Marines and sailors from Regimental Combat Team 2 and members of the Iraqi Security Forces are continuing operations in and around the city of Haditha.

Marines from 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines are conducting operations in and around the city. The current operation, New Market (Souk Jadeed), is focused on disrupting insurgent activity in the vicinity of Haditha and maintaining the pressure on insurgents begun with Operation Matador, conducted in Western Iraq May 7-14.

Today, insurgents attacked Marines and ISF forces with small arms fire at 4 a.m. in central Haditha. Six insurgents were killed in the battle and two Marines were reported wounded. Local citizens identified one of the attackers killed as an imam. The imam was firing on Marines and ISF with an AK-47 assault rifle.

During separate engagements throughout the area four more insurgents were killed. Marines and ISF searched targeted areas, buildings and businesses in an effort to locate insurgents, weapons and ammunition caches. Checkpoints have been established around the city to interdict insurgents leaving the city.

One weapons cache consisting of a RPG launcher, machinegun and ammunition was discovered buried in a palm grove north of the city.

Neither Marines nor Iraqi Forces have entered or damaged any mosques in the course of the operation.

Insurgent presence and activity has recently increased in the area. Over the course of the three months of the Marines’ presence, numerous roadside bombs have been discovered in the vicinity of Haditha and numerous indirect fire attacks have been launched against Coalition forces assigned to protect the Haditha area.

Approximately 1,000 Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces are participating in Operation New Market.

Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

United States Marine Corps

Press Release
Public Affairs Office
Multi-National Force-West;

cepaowo@cemnf-wiraq.usmc.mil
Contact:

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Release # 0524-05-0850

Iraqi Police, U.S. Soldiers repel attack on police station
May 24, 2005

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, Iraq -- Iraqi Police and Soldiers from the 155th Brigade Combat Team, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) repelled an attack by insurgents on an Iraqi police station in Jurf As Sakhr, Iraq Saturday.

155th BCT Soldiers responded to a report of a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) at the police station. The VBIED exploded when they arrived and an exchange of small-arms fire erupted between insurgents and the Iraqi Police.

The Soldiers stopped two vehicles and a motorcycle attempting to flee the area and detained 10 suspected insurgents.

An explosive ordinance team investigated the scene and found four 160mm artillery rounds wired with timed fuses as well as an Iraqi Police vehicle that appeared to be tampered with. The building was evacuated and secured. The explosive ordinance team moved the munitions and vehicle to a secure area and destroyed them.

No U.S. Soldiers were injured during the attack. Very little damage was done to the police station.

The 155th BCT is assigned to II MEF (Fwd) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

United States Marine Corps

Press Release
Public Affairs Office
Multi-National Force-West;

cepaowo@cemnf-wiraq.usmc.mil
Contact:

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Release # 0524-05-0847

Coalition Forces capture Ramadi-based insurgent leader
May 24, 2005

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq -- Coalition Forces dealt a serious blow to insurgent activities in Ramadi and throughout Iraq Monday, capturing the Ramadi-based insurgent leader of Al-Naman Brigade, an extremist organization that targets the citizens of Ramadi and Coalition Forces.

Multiple intelligence sources and tips from Iraqi citizens led Multi-National forces to a location in Baghdad, resulting in the capture of Muhammad Daham Abd Hamadi.

Intelligence sources have confirmed his criminal activities in Ramadi directly support terrorist operations.

Daham is responsible for numerous attacks against coalition and Iraqi forces and has provided weapons, funds, and foreign fighters to numerous small cells operating under his control. He has been linked to several kidnappings in the Ramadi area. Daham and his organization kidnap local businessmen and governmental officials to fund terrorist operations.

He is also the suspected leader of several insurgent groups that have been linked to the smuggling of weapons and money into Iraq, from neighboring countries. He has ties to other highly sought after insurgent and terrorist leaders and is possibly linked to the AMZ network.

Daham is being detained for questioning.

United States Marine Corps

Press Release
Division of Public Affairs
Headquarters, U. S. Marine Corps
Washington, D. C. 20380-1775
Telephone: 703-614-4309 DSN 224-4309 Fax 703-695-7460
Contact: Charlie Roakes
Team Rensi Motorsports
704-906-5466

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Release # 0525-05-1052
May 25, 2005

Team Rensi motorsports reminds race fans to join in for national moment on remembrance on monday

MOORESVILLE, N.C.--Team Rensi Motorsports has joined forces with the White House Commission on Remembrance to help honor our fallen heroes.

The two Team Rensi Motorsports NASCAR Busch Series Fords, the No. 25 Team Marines Ford driven by Ashton Lewis, Jr. and the No. 35 McDonald’s Ford driven by Jason Keller will carry decals this weekend reminding race fans of the National Moment of Remembrance.

Congress passed Public Law 106-579 in 2000, establishing The White House Commission on Remembrance as the sole coordinating authority for the National Moment ofRemembrance. The Commission honors America’s fallen and recognizes our veterans and those who continue to serve our country to preserve our liberties. Its purpose is to promote the values of Memorial Day by acts of remembrance throughout the year and encourage Americans to demonstrate their gratitude by giving back to our Nation.

The National Moment of Remembrance is an act of national unity to honor America’s fallen. All citizens, alone or with family and friends, wherever they are at 3 p.m. are asked to pause for a Moment of Reflection honoring those who dies for our country. The goal is to put “Memorial” back into Memorial Day and rededicate the nation to giving back to our country – recently a Gallup Poll indicted that only 28 percent of Americans realize the meaning of this noble holiday.

On Memorial Day at 3 p.m. local time train whistles around the nation will blast, trumpets will resonate, baseball games will be stopped and Americans throughout the country will fall silent to pause for the National Moment of Remembrance in honor of those who gave their all to America. Other participants include thoroughbred racing, military institutions, The National Constitution Center, Pennsylvania Turnpike Authority, hospitals, The Liberty Bell, United Spinal Association, retirement communities, shopping malls, National Parks, grocery stores, airports, bus lines and The International Space Station.

"It's a real privledge for Team Rensi Motorsports to be asked to be a part of creating awareness for the National Moment of Remembrance,” said Team Rensi Motorsports Co-owner Sam Rensi. “With our long standing relationship with the United States Marines Corps, we continue to learn about the dedication of our fallen heroes and give thanks for their service to our great country. Our entire organization will participate in helping to put the "Memorial" back in Memorial Day on Monday."

All three Armed Services cars (Unites States Marine Corps, United States Coast Guard and the United States Navy) participating in the NASCAR Busch Series will have a National Day of Remembrance Decal on their cars in the Car Quest Auto Parts 300 at Lowe’s Motor Speedway on Saturday.

United States Marine Corps

Press Release
Public Affairs Office
Multi-National Force-West;

cepaowo@cemnf-wiraq.usmc.mil
Contact:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Release # 0516-05-0829

Coalition Forces destroy insurgent command center
May 14, 2005

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq -- Coalition aircraft today bombed two unoccupied buildings outside Fallujah that had been used as an insurgent command center, weapons hide site and detention and possible torture facility.

The two structures were located approximately 30 kilometers northwest of the city, in an agricultural area. The buildings were destroyed by precision-guided munitions to prevent future use by anti-Iraqi forces.

Coalition forces discovered the site during routine operations.

Weapons and munitions found and subsequently destroyed include:

(34) 155mm mortar rounds

(25) Rocket accelerant tubes

(10) 155mm warheads

(10) 120mm warheads

(8,000) rounds, machine gun ammo

In addition, assorted rifles, sights, detonation cord, explosives, detonators, and IED-making materials were found and destroyed.

Coalition forces also collected training manuals, anti-Iraqi force documents and anti-coalition propaganda.

MSSG Marines maintain 26th MEU capabilities
Submitted by: 26th MEU
Story Identification #: 20055255233
Story by Capt. Will Klumpp



CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait (May 25, 2005) -- Intense heat, blowing sand, miles of unimproved roads... these conditions would spell disaster for the hardiest equipment if not for the efforts of the Maintenance Platoon, MEU Service Support Group 26, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable).

The MSSG maintenance Marines have been working 16 hours a day or longer here to keep the MEU's equipment in proper working condition and ready for operations in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. But, if you think their work is limited to keeping vehicles rolling, think again. The Maintenance Platoon is comprised of about 40 Marines spanning more than 22 military occupational specialties.

"We fix everything from telephones to tanks," said Chief Warrant Officer Samuel D. Hammonds, Maintenance Platoon commander.

At any given hour of the day, Marines can be found repairing items such as floodlights, small arms, optics systems and armored humvees. Hammonds said the Marines are at work by 7 a.m. and continue at their jobs until about midnight. Although they are given the opportunity to take a break from the 100-plus degree heat in the middle of the day, many Marines opt to continue working straight through to ensure equipment is back "on line" as quickly as possible.

Most of the vehicle and heavy equipment maintenance is conducted in the shade of a steel "garage", while work on more sensitive equipment requiring diagnostics or special electronic tools is done in "maintenance vans." These vans are large air-conditioned shipping containers with surge-protected electrical outlets.

Each van serves a specific maintenance specialty. These include an infantry weapons van for repairing every weapon in an infantry company's inventory; a van for repairing electrical components of tanks, light armored vehicles, assault amphibian vehicles and missile systems; and a van for repairing radio and communications equipment.

The conditions in the desert here pose a challenge to keeping each type of equipment in good working order. "Sand gets into everything," said Hammonds.

The most physically challenging maintenance for the Marines may be that required to the keep the MEU's vehicles in top operating condition. They are susceptible to the combined effects of the harsh Kuwaiti desert and the weight stress from recently installed Marine Armor Kits.

"We are fighting three different elements... austere environment, heat and the added weight of the armor," said Hammonds. He stated that the sand slows airflow to the engine and gets into the transmission. Factor in the weight of the armor, and the humvees get pushed to their limits, he said.

The maintenance Marines have been able to keep vehicles up and running through hard work and the availability of replacement parts at nearby Camp Arifjan, a U.S. Army base in southern Kuwait.

The base is a retrograde point for damaged equipment and has proven a valuable source for items such as humvee motors and transmissions. MSSG has Marines pulling useable parts for shipment here. Hammonds said that the maintenance Marines have been able to complete about 60 percent of their repairs with supplemental parts from the salvage inventory at Camp Arifjan.

The repair rate for equipment coming to the maintenance platoon has been impressive. Hammonds said that in the previous 48 hours, the maintenance Marines were able to get seven of nine "hard-down" vehicles back up and running.

Although there are designated specialists such as heavy equipment mechanics, tank mechanics and motor transport mechanics within Maintenance Platoon, there are no lines drawn when it comes to making needed repairs to broken equipment.

"We all help each other out," said Cpl. Andrew T. Cain, a motor transport mechanic from East Liverpool, Ohio.

"He's not even a humvee mechanic - he's a heavy equipment mechanic," said Cain, referring to Cpl. Christopher H. Miller from Pelion, S.C.

Miller, busy installing an alternator on a nearby armored humvee undergoing engine replacement, said they can handle any maintenance thrown at them.

MSSG 26 and the 26th MEU (SOC) will continue training at the Udairi Range until the end of the month in preparation for follow-on operations as the theater reserve for U.S. Central Command.

For more information on the 26th MEU (SOC), log on to http://www.usmc.mil/26thmeu.

Springfield native helps keep aircrews safe in Iraq
Submitted by: 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing
Story Identification #: 200552833433
Story by Sgt. Juan Vara



AL ASAD, Iraq (May 28, 2005) -- An intelligence specialist with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465, Lance Cpl. Liz S. Rohrer doesn’t let the "Groundhog Day effect" of serving here interfere with the quality of her work. Skipping over even the smallest detail could cost several lives.

As an intel specialist in an assault support helicopter squadron, Rohrer keeps track of enemy movement and passes that information to pilots and crewchiefs. The aircrews use it to plan their routes throughout the Al Anbar province and either fly around or push through certain regions, depending on the level of enemy activity.

After the mission she receives information from the pilots and crewchiefs and shares it with the rest of the intel specialists in the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) to track what the enemy is doing and help aircrews avoid flying over danger zones.

“Somebody told me once ‘the pilots are your pilots,’” she said. “Every time I brief them my main goal is to make sure I give them all the information they need. I want to brief them on everything they need to know so the flight is safe and I want to have them come back so I can debrief with them.”

A native of Springfield, Mo., Rohrer thought of joining the military or becoming a missionary after graduating from a private Christian school two years ago. Her long-term plan during that time was to become an FBI agent.

Serving in the intelligence field of one of the armed forces looked like a good stepping-stone and after researching the Internet to learn about the military, Rohrer decided on becoming a Marine. “I like to be the best at whatever I do,” she said. “The Marines are the best.”

In November 2003 Rohrer reported to Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C., and left after enduring 13 weeks of arduous physical and mental training. Having completed Marine Combat Training and intelligence specialists’ school, Rohrer joined her current unit, based at Marine Corps Air Station, Miramar, Calif., in August 2004.

The squadron deployed here seven months later to participate in Operation Iraqi Freedom, bringing Rohrer among its ranks. “It’s part of the job,” she said. “Some of the cool things about being a Marine are that we get to travel a lot and learn about other people. We also learn a lot about ourselves and how to deal with certain situations.”

To deal with the stress of working a 12-hour shift every day, Rohrer lifts weights and does cardiovascular exercises regularly. As a child she played basketball, soccer, Futsal (indoor soccer), ran and studied martial arts. “I love to work out,” she said. “It releases natural endorphins and becomes addictive.”

Working on getting as much of her education completed while in the Corps, Rohrer is taking a sociology class here, which she juggles with work and the limited free time she has. Her plans of working for the bureau have changed and now she wants to become a doctor and help those in need.

“I still want to complete the mission and being a doctor is one of the things I think would be good,” she said. “I’d like to study sports medicine or something like that.”

Whether as a Marine in a combat zone or as a missionary, Rohrer’s focus stays the same, doing her best to help save the lives of those around her.

Having been a radioman for thirty years in the Marines this young man's accomplishment really means something to me. Few people appreciate the radioman until they need him. Back when I started in radios the radios where bigger and the aeriels were taller and no one wanted to be any where near the radioman because in a firefight guess who they try to shoot first.


Combat meritorious promotion for division radio operator
Submitted by: 2nd Marine Division
Story by: Computed Name: Sgt. Stephen D'Alessio
Story Identification #: 2005528121325




CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq(May 28, 2005) -- Corporal Tyrone Richmond wanted a challenge when he joined the Marines. When he made it to Iraq for his second tour he found it.

Richmond recently received a combat meritorious promotion to the noncommissioned officer rank of corporal. He was awarded the rank from among his peers who were vying for the promotion.

Richmond’s experience was well beyond his years in the Corps, which are surprisingly few. The field radio operator and 2002 graduate of Booker T. Washington High School joined the Corps nearly two years ago. There, he was a percussionist with the school’s band.

“I enlisted to make my mother proud and to give myself a challenge,” said Richmond. “After high school, I was just looking see what my options were.”

And he’s had plenty so far.

“When we arrived here in March, we had a lot of work to do setting up the communications network, rewiring the radios and organizing the gear. No matter how much work there is, it’s always a challenge just being here.”

The 21-year-old East Bank, New Orleans, La. native is part of the camp’s quick reaction ‘Forward,’ responsible for setting up communications outside the camp’s perimeter or in a combat situation. His job is part of the foundation for information entering and leaving the combat operations center where the battle plans are made before they’re put to action. Without Marines like Richmond, the command would be in the dark.

Unlike many of the Marines in his platoon, this isn’t Richmond’s first time in Iraq. He deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom last year and served in the insurgent-held city of Fallujah with Marines of 1st Marine Division.

“I was the only radio operator for an army battalion that supported the division during the fight,” said Richmond. “We also patrolled through Iskandariyah to the south.”

Richmond’s combat experience helps him train his fellow Marines in Radio Platoon for what they may experience during the coming months of their deployment here. While some of them remain on camp, monitoring the radio transmissions that go in and out of the division, others like him are attached to smaller subunits.

“We have a lot of Marines pushed out to places like Truck Company and the quick reaction force,” said Richmond. “There are a lot of great people here who volunteer to go out on convoys as radio operators for the companies and I like to be part of that kind of unit.”

Though Richmond isn’t spending as much time outside of the wire, he plans to make the most of his newest experience in Iraq. He’s recently been cross training with Marines from other sections in Headquarters Battalion’s Communications Company in the realm of computers and networking.

“If nothing else, you can always learn something new,” said Richmond. “I plan to do as much as I can out here and when I get back, enroll in some college courses. Above all else, I’m just proud to serve my country.”

Heritage, find some Marines and tell them you think their government "bribes" them to do their duty. Do it face to face with them

Thanks for you guys kind thoughts here on the day before memorial day.

Several off-topic posts have been moved to this thread:
http://www.commongroundcommonsense.org/for...T&f=103&t=26548

A couple of very derisive posts have been removed completely.

Civil Affairs provides medical aid escorts Iraqis to medical facility
Submitted by: 2nd Marine Division
Story by: Computed Name: Lance Cpl. Athanasios L. Genos
Story Identification #: 200552774034

CAMP DELTA, Iraq(May 27, 2005) -- The siren went off at the medical facility down the road and the Marines from 5th Civil Affairs Group, working with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment quickly put their gear on and headed out into the night knowing one of the citizens needed aid.

Marines in a Civil-Military Operations Center provided convoy security for the local ambulance drivers who made stops at Iraqi homes for patients in need of urgent medical care.

“We took the ambulances to the people who needed help and I was one of the Marines who provided security during the escorts,” said Lance Cpl. John E. Fleming, a motor transportation operator and Salisbury, Md., native working with the CAG.

The ambulance security was part of Operation Clear Decision, an operation consisting of cordon and knock missions to root out weapons caches and insurgents throughout the city. The ambulance security allowed local citizens – who were concerned with traveling to medical facilities during the operation – to be transported to hospitals and medical facilities in an expedient manner.

The siren signaling the first medical run was also a herald for the future. Medical cases requiring escort through the city by the CAG Marines increased as the operation continued.

As word of the ambulance escort spread, more people came to the medical facility in need of medical attention. Some needed to be moved to a hospital and were seen by the local doctor.

“I am one of the Marines who drives and provides security when we are out in the cities doing our jobs,” said the 2003 Parkside High School graduate. “Being a reservist, I volunteered to go with CAG when they deployed here.”

Fleming and the rest of the Marines in the group pushed forward as the escorts continued in to the morning hours. Many of the houses that had patients were spread throughout the city and it took much of the morning to get the patients escorted to where they needed to go.

After completing the escorts, the Marines returned to the CMOC where they formed a group that handed out soccer balls to children. The Marines then walked the streets to speak with adults about other services the CMOC provided during Operation Clear Decision.

Maj. Mark Fuller, Team 2 commander, Detachment 2, 5th CAG and his Marines walked through the somewhat empty streets stopping to spread the word about the medical aid, claims assistance, and food service available at the CMOC

When Fuller and his Marines came across children along their patrol route, they would give them toys and soccer balls.

“Giving out soccer balls and toys to the children is a fun thing to do,” Fleming said. “I enjoy getting out and doing things like that. I love being in the Marine Corps and getting to be here doing our job.”

Museum hours of operation are Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00AM to 3:30PM. Enter the base through the North Gate and tell the Sentry that you want to visit the Museum and have a photo ID ready. For additional Museum information please call 858.693.1723.

War of the American Revolution

American Revolution 1775-1783
President: George Washington
Commandant of the USMC:
Capt. Samuel Nicholas 1775-1781
Manning of the USMC: 131 officers, 2000 enlisted
USMC Causalities: Dead- 49, wounded-70
Weapons Used:
.75 cal. Brown Bess musket

In Congress, Resolve of 10 November 1775
"Resolved, That two Battalions of marines be raised, Consisting of one Colonel, two Lieutenant Colonels, two Majors, and other officers as usual in other regiments; and that they consist of an equal number of privates with other battalions; that special care be taken, that no persons be appointed to office, or inlisted into said Battalions, but such as are good seamen, or so aquatinted with maritime affairs as to be able to serve to advantage by sea when required: that they be inlisted and commissioned to serve for and during the present war between Great Britain and the colonies, unless dismissed by order of Congress: that they be distinguished by the names of the first and second battalions of American Marines, and that they be considered as part of the number which the continental Army before Boston is ordered to consist of."

Marine Actions of this period are:

New Providence, Nassau, The Bahamas, 3 March 1776 (First Landing made by Marines.)
USS Cabot & Alfred vs. HMS Glasglow, 6 April 1776.
Second Battle of Trenton, 2 January 1777.
Battle of Princeton, 3 Jan 1777.
USS Reprisal vs. HMS Swallow, 5 February 1777.
USS Hancock vs. HMS Fox, 27 June 1777.
USS Raleigh vs. HMS Druid, 4 September 1777.
Defense of the Delaware Forts, October – November 1777.
Second Nassau Expedition, 27 January 1778.
USS Randolph vs. HMS Yarmouth, 7 March 1778.
USS Boston vs. HMS Martha, 11 March 1778.
Raid with John Paul Jones on Whitehaven, England, 22 April 1778.
USS Ranger vs. HMS Drake, 24 April 1778.
Penobscot Expedition, 26 July-13 August 1779.
USS Bon Homme Richard vs. HMS Serapis, 23 September 1779.
Defense of Charleston, SC, 12 February – 12 May 1780.
USS Trumbull vs. HMS Watt, 2 June 1780.
USS Alliance vs. HMS Atlanta &Trepassy, 28-29 May 1781.
USS Hyder vs. HMS General Monk, 8 April 1782.
USS Alliance vs. HMS Sybylle, 20 January 1783.
Significant Events:

First USMC Amphibious landing
First time American Flag raised on a facility captured by the Marines
Captain S. Nicholas was the first officer of the Sea Services who's Commission was ratified by Congress
The mission of the Corps of that time was to provide Boarding Parties, Landing Forces and internal security aboard the ship.

1775-1783
Several of the colonies maintained “State Navy’s and attached marines as part of their militias. These men served all along the coastal and Great Lakes regions against the forces of the Crown.

The Continental Marine Corps was established by an Act of Congress on November 10, 1775, patterning the Continental Marines after the Royal Marines of England, the Continental Marines were authorized 2 battalions with the following manpower: One Colonel, two Lieutenant Colonels, two Majors with other officers and men “…as usual in other regiments…”

General Washington opposed the establishment of the battalions of Marines as impractical as a result of manning difficulties. He suggested that the Marines be raised in New York and Philadelphia where there were, according to him, “… many unemployed men familiar with the ways of the sea…”.

On 30 November the Colonial Congress informed Washington that they would oversee the stand up of the Marine Battalions.

On November 28, 1775, 31 year old Captain Samuel Nicholas was commissioned as the first officer of the Corps. (Captain Nicholas was also the first officer of the Naval Service whose commission was ratified by Congress on 28 Nov. 1775.

John Hancock, then President of the Continental Congress signed the commissioning warrant.) Legend has it that the first recruiting station was at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia. However, that has never been successfully documented.

The first fleet of 8 ships with Marines on board sails on 17 Feb 1776 for Nassau in the Bahamas with 234 Marines. The first Colonial Marine causalities were suffered on the return voyage off of Rhode Island when the British Warship Glasgow attacks the USS Alfred. Two officers and 2 enlisted were lost. The first Marine to die in the service of the country was 2ndLt John Fitzpatrick.

During the American Revolution, The Corps would loose 33% of its officers in combat and 25% of the enlisted men.

Marines raided England. With John Paul Jones on US Ship Ranger 22-23 April (1st time since 1667 foreign troops on British soil) ,

Originally, the Marines raised 5 companies, which were stationed at barracks in Philadelphia while they were trained, armed and equipped.

Colonial Marine Corps Missions consisted of service afloat supporting naval operations, service as snipers in the tops, conduct of raids and landings in the Caribbean and England, and service ashore with the Continental Army.

In 1775, the strength of the Continental Marines was 525 men. At the close of the war, the Marines had 25 men. Colonial Marine casualties during the war were 49 killed and 117 wounded.

The average age of the Continental Marine was 25.5 years old, and he stood at an average of 5’ 5” tall.

The monthly pay for a Captain of Marines was established at $26 2/3, while a Private earned $6 2/3. His daily rations consisted of 1 lb. of bread, 1 lb. of meat, 1 lb. of potatoes, turnips or 1⁄2 lb. of peas and 1⁄2 pint of rum.

Black men served in the Continental Marine Corps, but after the war, it would not be until World War II that Black U.S. Marines would again serve.

On January 3, 1776, the first 230 Continental Marines boarded ships and sailed into history, beginning the legacy which lasts to the present day.

Quasi War with France (French Naval War 1798-1801)

French Naval War 1798-1801
President: John Adams
Commandant of the USMC:
William Ward Burrows 1798-1804
Manning of the USMC: 131 officers, 2,131 enlisted
USMC Causalities: Dead-6, Wounded-11
Weapons Used:
.75 cal. Brown Bess musket
.69 Cal. Charleville musket
Some new Model 1795's


In 1797 France, believing that Jay's treaty showed favoritism to Britain begins to interfere with U.S. ships on the high seas. By 1798 with more than 500 American ships being either captured or harassed: Congress repealed all treaties with France, and ordered the U.S. fleet to capture French armed ships and recapture American ships seized by the French. The majority of American/French actions occurred in the Caribbean. By 1801 President Adams had reopened negotiations with France and avoided widespread war with Napoleon. Part of the negotiated terms was the purchase price of the Louisiana territory bought from Napoleon in 1803. Marines served on both gun crews and as snipers in the "tops" plus boarding parties during this conflict.

Campaigns and dates:

Constellation vs French L'Insurgente Feb. 1798
Experiment vs Haitian Picaroons Jan 1800
Constellation vs French La Vengeance Feb. 1800
Landing party from U.S. ship Patapsco Vs French troops on Curacao Sept 1798
Naval blockade of city of Jacmel, Haiti Feb. 1800
Marine boarding party captures former British ship H.M.S. Sanwich and the port for Santo Domingo spring 1800.

War with Tripoli or Barbary Pirates War 1801-1805

Barbary Pirates War 1801-1805
President: Thomas Jefferson
Commandant of the USMC:
Lt. Col. Franklin Wharton 1804-1818
Manning of the USMC: 26 officers, 453 enlisted
USMC Causalities: Dead-4, Wounded-10
Weapons Used:
.69 Cal. Flintlock Musket

At this point in American history, the Barbary states, Algiers, Morocco, Tripoli, and Tunis were exacting tribute, (bribes) from American merchant class ships sailing into the Mediterranean Sea.
The Barbary ports were heavily fortified with numerous corsairs manning well armed, swift ships. By 1785, American ships were being captured regularly and their crews enslaved. America was paying the Pasha of Tripoli $100,000 to ensure the safety and unimpeded passage of her ships.

In June of 1801 the Pasha declared war on the U.S. An early American expedition succeeded in landing a combined force of Marines and sailors which burned several Tripolian ships. In Oct. of 1803, The U.S. frigate Philadelphia, while on a punitive raid was captured after running aground with 43 Marines and the crew taken. (Later, this ship was destroyed in the harbor during a daring raid by U.S. Marines.)

Approx. 400 Marines (4/5ths of the Corps) was embarked upon Naval ships to eliminate Barbary threat to American shipping. Marine Operations aboard naval ships continued through 1804.

A plan was submitted by William Eaton, (to replace the belligerent Pasha Yusuf Karamanti with his brother Hamet,) and was approved by President Jefferson. Eaton sailed for Alexandria aboard USS Argus, which had a detachment of Marines commanded by Lt. Presly Neville O'Bannon.

On 29 Nov. O'Bannon, a Sergeant, and 6 Marines landed with Eaton and by March 8, set out with Hamet, and 500 men, some Greek mercenaries paid for with American gold: along with 107 camels overland through the desert to capture Tripoli and install Hamet as the new ruler.

After a march plagued by mutinies (which the Marines repeatedly suppressed,) and, with the additions of native tribesmen the army of now nearly 1200 set out for Derna. Supported by U.S. ships which proceeded to bombard the city Eaton, O'Bannon the Marines and other troops attacked the city of Derna. By 3:30 the American flag was raised over the captured citadel.

Campaigns and dates:

Enterprise vs Tripolian Tripoli Aug. 1, 1801
Raid on Tripoli May 20, 1803
Capture of Philadelphia by Tripolians Oct. 31, 1803
Constitution, Siren, Argus, Scourge, Vixen, Nautilus, & Enterprisevs Tripolitian vessels Aug. 3, 1804
Capture of Tripolian fortress at Derne-Triploi Apr. 25-27, 1805
Significant Events:

This was the first time the Stars and Stripes flew in victory over captured territory in the Eastern Hemisphere.
Legend states that Hamet, as a measure of gratitude, presented O'Bannon with a saber 32 1/2 inches long with a distinctive, jeweled "Mameluke" hilt. This style of hilt has remained to this day the pattern of the Marine Officer's saber.
It was during this campaign that part of the first verse of the future Marine's Hymn was written : "...to the shores of Tripoli..."

War of 1812-1815


War of 1812-1815
President: James Madison
Commandant of the USMC:
Lt. Col. Franklin Wharton 1804-1818
Manning of the USMC: 93 Officers, 2,622 enlisted
USMC Causalities: Dead-46, Wounded-33
Weapons Used:
.69 Cal. Charleville muskets

As a result of a failed foreign and defense policy, a desire for American territorial expansion, the assumed preoccupation of Britain with the Napoleanic war, and continuing problems with both France and Britain in regards to American shipping: war was declared with England on 12 June 1812.
When arguing the ability of U.S. Naval ships to successfully carry the naval campaign, two prominent naval officers indicated that a primary advantage held by the U.S. Frigate ships was the Marine detachment embarked which served as snipers in the rigging which would provide deadly service in close action. On Aug. 19 1812 Marines aboard the USS Constitution tested this theory against H.M.S. Guerriere. Marines would serve with distinction in several additional naval battles before the end of the war.

However, there were others campaigns facing the Sea Soldiers before the close of this conflict.

By 1813, there were better than 375 Marines serving on Lake Erie, Lake Champlain, and Lake Ontario. Marines participated in the capture of the British Fort George in Canada and aboard ships of the Great Lakes Fleet commanded by Oliver Hazard Perry. This important campaign for control of the Great Lakes was fought with Marines in the front and ended effective English and American Indian hostile actions; which eventually allowed American expansion into the northwest.

In 1814, British forces landed in an attempt to capture the American capitol at Washington. American militia forces fell before the English assault. However, Capt. Samuel Miller, then Adjutant to the Commandant, led a small unit of Marines attached with disembarked sailors Commanded by Commodore Barney, USN. The Marines and sailors formed an artillery line of 12 Lb guns and temporarily halted the British advance near the town of Bladensburg. After a sharp exchange where the Marine and Navy men gave better than they got, they retired in good order and the Brits marched to Washington and burned the majority of the Federal Government buildings with the exception of the Commandants Home and Marine Barracks at 8th and I streets; often it is said, out of professional respect for the hard fighting Marines.

By the end of 1814, the Treaty of Ghent officially ended the war but, due to slow communications not the fighting. Marines still had work at hand. Several additional naval battles were fought but the most important action was the land battle fought in defense of New Orleans.

Major General Andrew Jackson, (who would later parley his martial success into an effective bid for the American presidency,) commanded a mixed bag of Marines, Tennessee Cavalry, Militia, Pirates and Regular Army troops in the defense of New Orleans. On Christmas Day, 8000 Brit troops began the assault on New Orleans. Several minor battles were fought for one week until the English forces attempted a final assault on Jan 8. After fierce fighting with the forces of the crown losses at 2100 to American casualties of 71, the British left the field.

Campaigns and dates:

Essex vs H.M.S. Alert 13 Aug. 1812
Constitution vs H.M.S. Guerriere 19 Aug. 1812
Wasp vs H.M.S. Frolic 18 Oct. 1812
Constitution vs H.M.S. Juan 29 Dec. 1812
Hornet vs H.M.S. Peacock 24 Feb. 1813
Battle for Fort George (Canada) 27 May 1813
Chesapeak vs H.M.S. Shannon 1 June 1813
Battle of Craney Island (Norfolk VA.) 22 June 1813
Essex & Greenwich vs H.M.S. Seringapatam 14 July 1813
Enterprise vs H.M.S. Boxer 4 Sept. 1813
Battle of Lake Erie 10 Sept. 1813
Peacock vs H.M.S. Epervier 29 Apr. 1814
Battle of Bladensburg (Maryland) 24 Aug. 1814
Battle of Lake Champlain 11 Sept. 1814
Battle of New Orleans, 8 Jan. 1815
President vs H.M.S's Endymion, Majestic, Pomona, & Tenedos 15 Jan. 1815
Constitution vs H.M.S. Cyane & Levant 20 Feb. 1815
Hornet vs H.M.S. Penguin 23 Mar. 1815
Significant Events:

This war saw the Origin of the USMC fire team, with 6 Marines in the tops. One shooting and five reloading.


Uniform Guide Reprinted here by author’s permission. Our respectful thanks to Mark Hilliard for his deep personal commitment to the history of the United States Marine Corps. Please note the link on this web site for the 1812 Ships Guard Detachment, U.S.S. Constitution.

Clothing for Five Years
Original Regulations for Clothing Issued to Enlisted
U. S. Marines During the War of 1812
2000 by Mark Hilliard


Mark V. Hilliard
Historical Advisor, U.S.S. CONSTITUTION, 1812 Marine Guard
markhilliard@post.harvard.edu
© 2000 by Mark Hilliard

Introduction
Part I: The Marine Guard of 1812
Part II: Clothing and Equipment
Conclusions
Consultants
Notes
From the Commandant's Desk: A Sample of National Archives RG 127
"Corps" Used in 1812 Period


"This, I am informed, is not a new regulation, but an old one much neglected."
-- Lieutenant Bacon, U.S.M.C. Quarter Master, October 30th , 1813.


The 1812-era United States Marine Corps is one of the under researched gems of America history. This site will be updated as new information surfaces. If you have any research to share or questions to ask about the USMC during the War of 1812, please do not hesitate to contact us.



Introduction
This article began when, in my capacity as historical advisor to U.S.S.Constitution's 1812 Marine Guard, I was reading through the original United States Marine Corps correspondence of the War of 1812 period the National Archives in Washington, D.C., and came across the original Circular "Clothing for Five Years." This document, the 1812 equivalent of a modern inter-office memo, was written by Marine Quarter Master [sic] Lieutenant Samuel Bacon, October 30, 1813, under the direction of Marine Corps Commandant Lieutenant Colonel Franklin Wharton. The importance of this hand written letter tucked in Commandant Wharton's correspondence notebook lies in the fact that it is the only original document seen by the author that specifically states what items of uniform and equipment were issued to Enlisted Marines during the War of 1812.

The circular appears to have been, in part, a response to hoarding and/or pilfering of existing stocks by various Marine Guard commanders, in particular Captain Hall of the New York Guard and possibly Lieutenant Gale of the Philadelphia Guard. Gale was responsible for forwarding clothing and equipment shipments from the U.S. Arsenal at Schuylkill, Pennsylvania to various Marine Guards. Due to his position in New York astride the supply route to the "eastern [coast] stations," Hall was often asked to forward clothing and equipment to the Newport, Boston (Charlestown Navy Yard), and Portsmouth Guards, to the various vessel Guards who were resupplied through these ports, and on occasion to Lieutenant Brooks' Marine detachment on the Great Lakes, as well as to various officers sent inland on recruiting duty. It must be stressed that during the War of 1812 all U.S. Marine Corps units, no matter how far afield, received U.S. Marine Corps clothing and U.S. Army equipment, captured British equipment, and specially made USMC belts slightly narrower than the standard U.S. 1808 belts.

Part I: The Marine Guard of 1812

Approximately 3,000 men served as United States Marines during the War of 1812. At its peak strength in 1814, the corps of Marines totaled 750, in all ranks and duties.

According to the United States Department of Defense:

"The United States Marine Corps was established on November 10, 1775, to augment naval forces in the Revolutionary War. The recruiting headquarters was set up by Capt. Samuel Nicholas in the Tun Tavern on Water Street in Philadelphia, which is considered to be the birth-place of the Marines.

After success in many campaigns, the Corps was abolished at the close of the Revolutionary War for reasons of economy. On July 11, 1798, Congress ordered the creation of the Corps, named it the United States Marine Corps and directed that it be available for service under the Secretary of the Navy.

The Corps celebrated its birthday, or Marine Corps Day, on July 11 from 1799 until 1921 when the date was permanently changed to November 10 to commemorate the establishment of the Corps to aid in the Revolutionary War.

The day is still observed by U. S. Marines worldwide. Special exhibits, parades, drill team performances, and speeches typically mark the occasion. The Birthday Ball, which culminates in the cutting of the birthday cake, is held that evening in Washington, D.C.

It is not possible to determine precisely when the first cake ceremony was held, but the first on record took place at Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C., in 1937. Major General Thomas Holcomb, the Commandant, presided at an open house for Marine Corps officers, including the cutting of a huge cake in the shape of Tun Tavern."

In 1812, United States Marine Corps units were officially referred to as a "Marine Guards," e.g.: Frigate Constitution Guard; Charlestown Navy Yard Guard; Baltimore Barracks Guard. The familiar modern term 'detachment' was used in 1812-period Marine Corps correspondence to describe Marines not assigned to a specific station or vessel, or on detached duty. It was also used in 1812 much as we today would use the word 'unit' 4 Thus Lieutenant Brooks' Marines could be considered a "detachment," whereas The Marines aboard Frigate Constellation comprised a "Guard."

Internal correspondence within the Marines and the 1812 period U.S. military establishment frequently refers to "your Corps," the Corps of Marines," Marine Corps," and officers often signed their rank and name followed by "M. Corps." U.S. Marine correspondence frequently refers to "the Corps of Marines," the "Marine Corps," & many officers signed their correspondence with their name, rank & "M. Corps." The letters show that civilians often confused the Marines with the Army, and rarely used the word "Corps." U.S. Marine officers, including Commandant Wharton, usually referred to Marine Privates as "soldiers" rather than as "Marines" (which could also mean an Officer or Musician or Armourer).

Marines were stationed either in Navy Yard Marine Barracks or aboard a Navy vessel. Individual Marines were drafted from barracks to vessels as needed. It was not intended that Marines operate outside this barracks-vessel system. A typical Marine Guard of 1812 is described in Captain Samuel Nicholson's 1797 newspaper advertisement recruiting the original crew complement for the Frigate Constitution: "...three Sargeants [sic], three Corporals, one Armourer, one Drummer, one Fifer, and fifty privates...." Such a large Guard was typically commanded by a 1st and 2nd Lieutenant, or a 1st Lieutenant and a Captain of Marines.

Officers and Men
While it is the intention of this paper to focus on the clothing and equipment issued to Enlisted Marines, it may be useful to briefly illuminate these men and their officers.

Most Marine officers of 1812 did their duty professionally and without occurrence -- itself remarkable considering wartime shortages of men and materials, the near impossibility of promotion within their tiny corps, the low status of Marines within American civil and military society, and strong public anti-war sentiment in the northeast United States. As in any military hierarchy, some Marine Corps officers placed themselves boldly beyond classification. There were the black sheep of respectable families, like Lieutenant John Brooks, a graduate of Harvard Medical School, who suddenly quit practicing medicine with his father (later Governor of Massachusetts) and got himself a commission in the Marines, where he was accused of cheating at cards and subsequently sent to the Great Lakes with a Marine detachment to redeem himself or die. He did both.6 Others were seeming daredevils, driven into the abyss of combat by personal motivations, then standing their ground to the very last. Witness the duel held within the Battle of Bladensburg between Marine Captain Samuel Miller and a British sniper, or the Frigate Constitution's ,

"Gallant [Marine Lieutenant] Bush, who, mounting the Taffle [taffrail: the stern bulwarks], sword in hand, and as he exclaimed !Shall I Board Her! received a fatal ball on the left cheek bone which passed thro' the back of his head. Thus fell that brave and illustrious officer, who, when living, was beloved, and, now gone, is lamented by all."

Why did these educated men from middle and upper class families join a service of low status where there was virtually no possibility of meaningful promotion and, in wartime, a good possibility of death or disfigurement? To suggest that they were motivated solely by patriotic zeal simplifies their lives and insults their memories. No doubt the then-living memories and legends of the Revolutionary War -- our first "good war"--were strong motivations for some of the generation who came of age at the turn of the century, eager to prove themselves against a demonized British foe. Yet the War of 1812 was vastly unpopular in New England, giving rise to a strong anti-war (to the point of secession) movement supported by members of all social classes from both the farms and ports who saw the war as a shameful land grab against a Britain weakened by fighting the despotic Bonaparte and (perhaps more practically) as a hindrance to booming international trade and war-profiteering. The jingo "Free Trade and Sailor's Rights" fooled few New Englanders: Anyone from a seacoast town knew that no one, least of all the government or merchants, cared about the rights of sailors--and the merchants of New England were staunchly opposed to the war as an impediment to international trade. Were the educated upper and middle class men who formed the officer corps of the Marines oblivious to political and economic realities? Were they blindly patriotic, powered by a thirst for military glory and vengeance against Britain -- or were their perceptions simply different from others of their social station? Clearly career and rank were not among their primary motivations. Perhaps each man had his own unique reasons for joining a service that demanded so much and returned so little. We may never really know the U.S. Marine officers of 1812, but in their motivations lies a fascinating story, yet to be told.

The motivations of individual Enlisted Men were, of course, equally as complex as their officers. Simple patriotism and stories of the Revolution must have played a role--as did the private's base pay of approximately $7.00 per month added to the initial $10.00 enlistment bounty and the $10.00 muster bounty, and the potential for a share in prize money from enemy ships and goods sold at auction through government agents -- all of which no doubt appealed to underemployed unskilled young men seeking a steady income.8 United States recruiting speeches of the period emphasize (1). Military glory, (2). Pay and bounties, and (3). A free suit of cloth (wool-rather than the farm boy's homespun linen) issued free "not once but every year" of the five-year enlistment. Little to nothing is said of politics or war: There has always been much truth to the old British saying that "Jack Frost is the best Recruiting Sergeant." And after all, what farm boy could resist a gallant and worldly Lieutenant of Marines, with his Fifer and Drummer beating out martial airs bedecked with streaming recruiting ribbons, accompanied by his Marine Sergeant, whom Herman Melville, himself a Seaman in one of Constitution's sister frigates, described as "....generally tall fellows with unyielding spines and stiff upper lips, and very exclusive in their tastes and predilections."

Yet through research several deeper patterns seem to develop. It was very difficult, at least in New England, to recruit Marine Enlisted Men from seaports. This was in part because of strong anti-war sentiment and a traditional American distain for professional soldiery, but primarily because young men inclined to enlist found that the Navy offered better pay, higher status, and the opportunity to learn or practice a valuable trade. The Revolution was only thirty years past, a time when, as General Arnold complained bitterly to General Gates, "The marines ['volunteered' for service on Lake Champlain are] the refuse of every regiment."10 1815 regulations even go as far as to specifically forbid Marines serving aboard any vessel of war from being discharged from the Marines and then entering the Navy as seamen. Despite official pronouncements that put Marines "in all respects, upon the same footing as seamen," in truth Marines never had the status of sailors, ashore or afloat.11 An Ordinary Seaman received $10.00 a month to the Private Marine's $8.00; a Navy Bosu'n was paid $20.00 a month, a Marine Sergeant $18.00.12 Marine Lieutenants were forced to scour the countryside far inland to lure farm-boys into the service.13 Charlestown (Boston) Navy Yard was even forced to hire un-uniformed civilians to supplement their under-manned Marine Guard. By 1812 the original five foot, six inch height requirement had been lowered to five feet, four inches to take advantage of the large pool of immigrant Irish applicants. British deserters and prisoners who eagerly joined the United States Marines were disappointed to find that, unlike the brutally low condition of sailors in the Royal Navy, in republic-minded America sailors held far higher social status than Marines. U.S. Marine Drummers did not even carry the ubiquitous cat-of-nine-tails whip, as all flogging was meted out to both Navy and Marine defaulters by Navy Boatswains. Tensions occasionally flared when Naval officers asserted control over their Marine Guards. Naval orders enjoined Navy Captains that Marine officers were to be treated "with respect, decency, and regard due to the commissions they bear," and that "they are to possess the cabins or births (cabins) erected for them." The regulation that Marine N.C.O.s are not "to be struck on any account, by any of the officers, petty officers, or seamen" speaks volumes.14 It was in this environment and under the constraints of blockade and the tensions of imminent combat that American sailors and American Marines put to sea together against the powerful Royal Navy.

Battle
As a guard for Navy property and vessels, the wartime Marine could expect to be ordered to defend his station or vessel from attack, attack and board an enemy vessel, or perhaps join a landing party or detached expeditionary force. At sea, the first sign of impending battle was the rattle and squeal of the Marine Fifer and Drummer beating "To Quarters" at the main hatch (presumably Marine Drummer Charles Ashworth's "To Arms" as dictated by the United States Manual of 1812).15 In naval actions, Marines were formed up on the quarterdeck at the rear of the vessel from where they would be used by the ship's captain as a mobile infantry counter-force to defend or attack as needed. The author has seen no evidence that United States Marines guarded the ladders to prevent desertion during battle-perhaps this was deemed unnecessary, as all U.S. Sailors were volunteers. Period illustrations typically show Marines in linear formation volley firing over the bulwarks, bows, or taffrail at point blank range. It was in such circumstances the Lieutenant Bush of the Frigate Constitution lost his life. It seems likely that U.S. Marines, like their British counterparts, would be ordered to aim for "the Tops, Port-holes, upper Decks, and where-ever they see the enemy."16

Aboard ship, Marines were also responsible for a number of what today would be called "special weapons," including blunderbusses, rifles, and the Chambers Gun of 1814, a large multi-shot flintlock mounted on the capstan, manned by Marines, and firing center-bored lead sabots like a roman-candle. Recent experiments aboard U.S.S. Constitution with a Chambers Gun mock-up indicate that the gun was capable clearing enemy decks in a series of fullauto minigun-like sweeping blasts-if you didn't mind chopping through your own rigging in the process! More likely it was intended as a weapon last-resort for use against an enemy boarding party already swarming over the gunnels and advancing across the deck. In this scenario the Chambers Gun must have been a terrifying and awesome weapon.17 A few Marine sharpshooters armed with muskets and/or rifles might be stationed in the "tops," platforms where sailors gathered before spreading out on the yards to handle sail (period naval documents do not use the term "fighting tops"). One common strategy was for the handful of Marines in each top to load rifles-a time consuming process-- which were then passed forward to the best marksman among them as needed. Marines aloft were to target enemy officers and the adolescent boys-the "powder monkeys"-- used to carry powder to the great guns. However, casualty figures indicate that U.S. Marines often ignored the carnage below to engage the enemy tops in bitter protracted firefights.18

Aftermath
Contrary to the neatly sanitized and glorified presentations of war typically fed to the public by popular magazines, museums, historic sites, historic vessels, and "living history" reenactments, actual naval combat in 1812 was horrifying beyond belief. On February 20, 1812, off the African coast 180 miles W.S.W. of Madeira, Frigate Constitution met and defeated H.M.S. Levant. 3rd Lieutenant William Branford Shubrick boarded the smaller British vessel to accept the surrender. Coming aboard the struck vessel, a Midshipman accompanying Shubrick noted that,

The mizen [sic] mast for several feet was covered with brains and blood; teeth, pieces of bones, fingers and large pieces of flesh were picked up from off the deck. It was a long time before I could familiarize myself to these and, if possible more horrid scenes that I had witnessed. 19

Official records state that during the war of 1812 more than 46 men and boys serving in the United States Marines were killed or mortally wounded, 33 were wounded in action, and approximately 100 were taken prisoner. However, original after-battle returns indicate that these official casualty figures may be far too low. In either case, the ratio of dead to wounded tells much about the after-action medical care given to Marines.


Part II: Clothing and Equipment

Non-issue Clothing
Some items of clothing not mentioned in the "Clothing for Five Years" circular may have been unofficially made or bought by individual Marines with the approval of their commanding officers (e.g.: forage cap made from old uniform coat; oilskins for heavy weather at sea, flannel drawers, mittens, etc.). The U.S. Navy had abolished the hated purser's slop chest system where clothing was deducted from the men's pay, and sailors were given a specified regular issue (albeit still called "slops") of government contracted, standardized, uniform clothing: Blue wool in "cold weather"; linen duck in "warm." The author has found no evidence to suggest that Marines ever wore Navy issue seaman's clothing during the war of 1812.20 To the contrary, both services received a regular issue of clothing specific to their branch. Sailors, but not Marines, were issued the ribbon necessary to "dress" the long qued hair then still in vogue among conservative men. Were these and other common items of clothing officially purchased by Marines as "contingent expenses"? Were some items bought or made by the individual Marine? Perhaps all three. The answers to these questions await further research.

The Watch Coat
The only item of clothing found in the 1812-period Marine Corps correspondence in National Archives, but not mentioned in this circular, is the watch coat. The Q.M.M. ordered this item to be made of baize (heavy felted) wool, which would have been moderately water-resistant. Watch coats, or watch cloaks, as they were sometimes called in Marine correspondence, were not issued to individual Marines, but "a few" were given to each vessel or port Guard (unit), and only in very small quantities to be used as needed by those Marines actually on guard during inclement weather. 21

Mess Items
U.S.Q.M. records clearly show that no U.S. Marines of the War of 1812 (including Lt. Brooks' Militia-come-Marines) were ever issued either haversacks or canteens. As field items strictly regulated to carry only rations and approved beverages, these would have been unnecessary for Marines, who as vessel or shore Guards received regular rations and had access to either water butts or wells. Lieutenant Colonel Cureitan of the U.S.M.C. Historical Center at Quantico has pointed out that while original Marine Corps records indicate that Marines of the period were not issued either item, it is possible -- although not documented by any period source -- that individual Marine unit commanders may have signed out canteen/haversack combinations from local Army stores as needed for extended inland operations. If this was the case, one can only speculate to what extent these items were returned to their original owners. Like sailors, Marines afloat clubbed their rations and messed in small groups ("messes"), and may have done the same in barracks. Plates, bowls, utensils, kids, cups, spices, tinned sheet iron camp kettles, and related items would have been found in mess chests both in barracks and aboard ship.

Weapons
United States Marine of 1812 could expect to be issued with a Harper's Ferry or Springfield Musket with bayonet. Between 1803 and 1813 2,549 muskets and 100 rifles had been charged to the United States Navy (it is interesting to note that this is 549 more muskets than were reported delivered during the same period). After-action reports by Marine officers also refer to "Springfield" muskets. It seems likely that earlier stocks of U.S. marked French Charlevilles were also re-issued. It is also clear from USMC documents that pre-existing stocks of India Pattern and the similar but different "Tower" (presumable "Short Land") British muskets were issued to US Marines during the War of 1812, along with captured British naval muskets. In all, a total of four musket types are known to have been issued. US Marines did not have "japanned" muskets.

During 1799 and 1800 the United States imported 9,400 British Muskets. In 1805, Marine Adjutant Fenwick recommended to Commandant Wharton that these be selected for use by Marines. Consequently, that same year approximately 500 "Short British Muskets" of the 1794-97 India Pattern were delivered to Marine Corps Commandant Wharton from Samuel Annin, military storekeeper at the Harpers Ferry Armory. By the War of 1812, however, these British muskets were not commonly in use by United States Marines due to their condition, scarcity, and the fact that they used ammunition different from that in general U.S. service. During the War the Marine Guard at the Charlestown (Boston) Navy Yard was once issued muskets of two different calibers. The larger caliber weapons, presumably "Tower" ship's muskets, were returned.22 The only issue of these "Tower" muskets to United States Marines during the war found by the author is documented on the 12 November 1813 list of re-supplies sent to the late Lieutenant Brooks' Marines after the Lakes Battle, which included the following entry: "25 Stand of (Tower) Arms/ 25 Stand of Arms (Tower)"23 Although scarce, the Tower muskets were popular. In 1813, Lieutenant Thomas Legge, commanding the Marine Guard of the U.S.S. Macedonian, wrote to Commandant Wharton from the New London, Connecticut Barracks asking that Marines be issued with Tower muskets:

The necessity for marines using Tower muskets must appear obvious to you, particularly in Boarding, as they can use them with more facility and with better effect, than they can the Springfield. The Barrels of the latter being much longer, the Calibre smaller, and with shorter bayonets, than the English [sic] muskets generally used by Marines [when allowed to use Ships Arms, as in this case].

On that account I have been induced, through the favor of Capt. Jones, to exchange those I received from Capt. Hall, for his Ship Muskets, which are not in the order I would wish them. They are old and much worn. However, I prefer them to the American muskets received in New York. It is uncertain how long I may be allowed to use the Ships Muskets. I there fore hope you may see the necessity of forwarding to this place 40 Tower muskets. 24

Lieutenant Legge's words are important because he is telling us that he preferred even the worn Tower muskets being used by the Navy as Ship's Muskets to the new "Springfield" and "American muskets" commonly issued to Marines.

In August 1809, Lieutenant Miller, Adjutant of Marines, received delivery from the Harpers Ferry Arsenal of "100 Short Rifles [Model 1803; 33" barrel], molds and chargers." The 1811 general inventory of naval ordinance does not differentiate between Marine and Navy arms, and it is important to bear in mind that each Navy vessel had its own store of arms, separate from those issued to Marines. The 1811 inventory does, however, specifically list the arms found at the Marine Barracks, Washington: 262 muskets, 201 bayonets, 22 rifles, and 40 blunderbusses. Although appealing and romantic to modern minds, the rifle and blunderbuss were contingency weapons only, and the "Tower" muskets, though perhaps preferred by Marines, were in poor condition and in limited supply as ship's stores-the primary weapon found in the hands of the War of 1812 U.S. Marine was the standard issue American manufactured musket.25

Equipment
With his musket and bayonet, the Marine's primary equipments were the two-piece 1808 bayonet belt of white leather with U.S.M. plate, and 1808 cartridge box with white leather belt. It is interesting to note that period portraits often show U.S. Marine Corps officers using enlisted bayonet belt plates on the larger officer's sword belt. Officer's two-piece belt plates were small and weak compared to the enlisted model, and in wartime may have been hard to come by.26 In a letter dated October 11, 1813, Commandant Wharton stated that "buff" (white) belts for Enlisted Men had "been positively for many years directed as part of our accoutrements" and insisted that early-issue 1808 black belts be converted to match the majority of post-1810 issue white belts. As a result, frustrating attempts to whiten earlier model black 1808 bayonet and box belts to conform to the more common 1810 white belts are a reoccurring theme in 1812-period USM correspondence.27 In addition to the items noted in the circular, a standard U.S. 1808 sheath with the bayonet's socket (as always in U.S. service) pointing in toward the body, "pricker"-brush set attached to the front center of the cartridge box belt, and flour for powdering the hair and sideburns (worn by all men in the 1812 period) completed the Enlisted Marine's issue of clothing and equipment.28 Sergeants received heavy bladed, brass-hilted curved swords with brass 'D' guards and fluted wooden grips29 as well as two large yellow epaulets, referred to by their 18th century name: "knots" or "shoulder knots."30 No reference was found to specific Corporal's knots or to any other specific enlisted Marine insignia other than uniform cap (shako) plates (often referred to as "eagles"), Marine issue brass buttons, and the brass eagle-and-anchor bayonet belt plates. Medals were not issued to or worn by Enlisted U.S. Marines in 1812.

Musics
Sadly, entertainment-oriented 1920's "ancient" style fife and drum clubs have effectively hijacked the both public's and the reenactment community's perceptions of true 18th and early 19th century military fife and drum music. As a result, some explanation of the role of military musicians is needed.

Until the mid 19th century Military Musics were the radiomen of their units. The Navy equivalent was the Bosun's pipe. United States military musicians -- no more than 1 fifer and 1 drummer per 40-man company -- played duty signals and ceremonial tunes from the official United States Government issue music book by Charles Ashworth, coincidentally a former Marine Corps Drummer. By regulation and on command of an officer ("By the quick step! Forward, March!"), Musics in all United States services played one of three marching speeds: "slow step" (50 beats/steps per. minute), "common step" (75 beats/steps per minute), and "quick step" (90 beats/steps per minute).31 In battle the Drummer was to relay signals by "beating low behind his company." Since the Revolutionary War, Company Musics did not play music on route marches or in actual combat (how could signals be transmitted if they did?).32 For the same reason, music was never massed except for daily morning and evening parades, and the rare ceremony or town parade -- the "parade" as we know it today.33 Fifers and Drummers were forbidden to practice near camp or barracks for fear of "mixed signals" or "false alarms."

It is worth noting that drum muffles -- a piece of cloth stretched and tacked under the top batter head of a drum--were invented for the "Ancient Fife and Drum" clubs of the 1890s and are still used today by all reenactment/fife-and-drum clubs. Prior to the 1890s, drums were not permanently muffled and military fifes were more commonly tuned to C instead of today's B flat.34 Standardized modern tunings allowed military musicians to play with the brass bands that came into vogue in the mid-1800s. No doubt the ringing rattle of the true military snare drum and the shrill scream of the military fife offended some Victorian sensibilities! As a result -- and because very few if any modern 're-created' fifers and drummers are interested in actually recreating historical music -- the true sound of 18th and early 19th century military music is now apparently extinct in the United States.35

Marine Corps Musics were issued either a regulation fife with case, or one standard regulation United States Drum, "complete." Regardless of branch of service, all U.S. drums were issued with vermilion hoops and an eagle painted on a blue ground with thirteen stars and thirteen stripes. After 9 April 1814, Commandant Wharton ordered 24 new Marine Corps drums with a smaller eagle bearing a scroll reading "United States Marines."36 All U.S. drums were issued with an "osnabrig" (osnaburg: a coarse linen) case, a one-size "white worsted web" sling without stick holders "finished with leather and button"37 and "Drum Sticks 18 in. long [approximately 3 ½ inch diameter] of heavy west India wood" to be cut to size to fit the drummer. The original 1812 U.S.M. sticks in the collection of the U.S.M.C. Museum were cut to fit the drummer and balanced at the large end with brass sleeves. Marine Fifers were given standard U.S. issue fifes of "finest East Indian Rosewood" 15 inches long with 1 inch brass ferrules, the leading edges of which were scored with a pattern of 2,1, and 1 groves.38 Marine Fifers were issued a 17 ¼ x 2 ¾ inch fife case of tinned iron, having a hinged cover with a 1 inch lip, unpainted, with a sling of cloth rope cord.39 Both Fifers and Drummers were issued standard enlisted coats in reversed colors and "music swords," though it would seem that the quality of these was sometimes lacking.40

Economy Measures
Economy was the rule in the United States Marines, especially during the British blockade. Commandant Wharton wrote to Lt. Henderson, commanding the Boston Marines, September 21, 1813:


You will also, if any man of your guard can do it, have your belts & noblons [?] & cartridge boxes repaired in barracks; if not, have them repaired wherever they can be done Cheapist & best. 41

On October 13, 1813, Quartermaster Bacon wrote to Lieutenant Gale in Philadelphia asking:

Is there any sheet Brass to be had in Phila either new in sheets; or wrought in to kelttes [kettles], new or old. If so please inform me & also of what price. We need it much for sword and scabbard mounting. 42

"Congress have not, as yet, deigned to turn an eye upon us" wrote Quartermaster Lieutenant Samuel Bacon on January 26, 1814, "and I fear we shall as usual pass without notice."43

Conspicuously Absent
As we have seen, common military items such as canteens and haversacks, plates, cups, utensils, drawers, and hair ribbons were not issued to Marines. Musket slings are not found in Marine correspondence or on re-supply lists, perhaps because there would be no reason to sling arms on barracks guard or aboard ship: On the rare occasions Marines were sent aloft, their arms and ammunition were "swayed up" after them. Oilers are not found, neither are worms or musket tools. Both were presumably unnecessary as Marine armorers were present both in barracks and aboard ship.44 To date, the author has seen no record of any items, other than those noted in this paper, having been issued to Enlisted U.S. Marines during the War of 1812.45

Colours
By law, the Stars and Stripes were not carried in parades or battle by any units of the United States Military until 1834.

Months of research in USMC Record Group 127 at the National Archives show that no Marine Corps units contracted for, bought, or were issued flags, flag poles, flag cases, battle streamers, flag carriers (not yet invented), flag eagles or pike heads, or any other object or item pertaining to flags.

The United States Marines first carried the Stars and Stripes in the Battle of Mexico City in 1847.

In "The Stars and Stripes, the Story of our Flag" Historian Irving Werstein writes:

"General George Washington repeatedly asked that the troops be allowed to carry the national colors, but for some reason Congress refused to grant permission until March of 1783, more than a year after the last land battle of the Revolutionary War. Even then, the use of the Stars and Stripes was limited to display at forts, camps, and to the military instillations. It was only after 1834, when Congress at last gave its approval, that [military] units could legally carry the flag in parades or battle.(p. 31)"

Prior to the vague flag law of 1794, there was no set pattern for the United States flag. The first standardization of the national colors was Wendover-Reid flag law, passed by Congress on July 4, 1818. Even as late as 1847, the Dutch government asked the American government for "the exact pattern of the U.S. national colors so we may pay it proper respect."

All historical sources, researchers, and serious living history groups agree: With the documented exceptions of Bennington (1777) and Cowpens (1781), no United States National marching colors were ever carried by or even issued to any United States military units before the 1840s. Instead, one or two regimental flags were carried.

During the War of 1812, United States Marines were thought of as a single unit under the command of the Commandant, and his Washington, D.C. office Head Quarters was made the permanent location of the U.S. Marine colors. The United States Marine Corps historical Center confirms this. The use of either unit or national flags by Marines in 1812 would be a moot point in any case, since it was expected that Marines would always be posted to either a vessel or Navy Yard under whose national colors the Marine Guard would do their duty. Historically, it was in fact a large U.S. Naval Pennant that Lieutenant O'Bannon raised over Tripoli in 1804. One reason marines did not have "regimental" colors was that it was never anticipated that the day would come when Marines would or could be used as infantry. Prior to 1812, such a dire national emergency was unthinkable-and unplanned for. And when the time came, a lack of flags was the least of their problems.46

It was in large part because the U.S. Marines had proved themselves in the War of 1812-with out flags, haversacks, surgeons, that in 1847 Watson's Marine Battalion at the Battle of Mexico City became the first United States Marine unit to carry the Stars and Stripes.

As a member of the U.S.S. Constitution Marines, and as a person who cares about history, I recognize that what we do in front of public has a great and lasting impact. We must start somewhere to disppel the historic myths


United States National Colors were never carried by or even issued to U.S. Army regiments before the 1840s. Instead, one or two regimental flags were carried. Since Marines were thought of as a single unit under the command of the Commandant, his Washington, D.C. office Head Quarters was made the permanent location of the U.S. Marine Corps colors. The use of either unit or national flags by Marines would be a moot point in any case, since it was expected that Marines would always be posted to either a vessel or Navy Yard under whose national colors the Marine Guard would do their duty. It was never anticipated that the day would come when Marines would or could be used as infantry. Prior to 1812, such a dire national emergency was unthinkable-and unplanned for. And when the time came, a lack of flags was the least of their problems.47

Conclusions
It must be remembered that the U. S. Marine of 1812 was literally a "Guard," either to his Navy Yard barracks with all its amenities or to his vessel, itself a complete fortress put to sea. Marine vessel Guards were taken directly from the nearest Marine Corps Barracks. The concepts of "sea" Marine, "land" Marine or "amphibious forces" did not yet exist Before 1812, an Enlisted Marine ashore was usually a Marine not yet assigned to a vessel. All Enlisted Marines or Musics were issued the same uniform and equipment, and though he seems in retrospect under-equipped, the Marine of 1812 had on or about him all the tools and clothing he needed to do the jobs for which his force was originally designed: to guard Navy property and vessels.

Yet the War of 1812 completely changed the way Americans perceived their Marines: Sent into desperate land engagements as infantry or light artillery, without a flag to rally around, or even the comfort of a canteen, a haversack, or a regimental surgeon, the Marines of 1812 often held the line when better-supplied and fully-supported units failed against the greatest military force the world had yet known. Under such conditions these boys and men, of low social status and under-equipped for combat on land even by the standards of their day, earned a reputation for loyalty, determination, aggressiveness, and victory in the face of privation, blood, and horror--though at what cost only those who are now dust or coral can say for sure.


U.S.M.Q.M. Circular, October 30, 1813, Letters Sent. Sept. 1813-Aug. 1814;
Records of the United States Marine Corps, National Archives, Washington, D.C.
Transcribed here in full by the author from 1813 original at the National Archives, Washington, D.C. Spelling and punctuation and emphasis are original; author's notes are in brackets.


Circular
Q M Office HQM Corps Wash.n. oct 20 1813

Sir, I have been directed by the Lt. Col. Commanding to state to you the quantity of clothing which in future will be allowed to each marine during his five years' enlistment.

The Deduction, which is made in some articles, of which neither the comfort nor appearance of the soldier requires one in each year, is made up to him in his fatigue suit, which adds to his comfort & enables him to preserve his uniform. This, I am informed, is not a new regulation, but an old one much neglected.

5 caps [shakos]
5 bands [hat cords, "Hat-band of yellow cord, with a Tassel of the same colour" ]
5 plumes [Privates"red plush"; Sergeants "Scarlet" ; Musics "plume" or"feather" ]
2 plates [U. S. Marine shako plates]
5 U.coats [uniform dress wool coats]
10 Ln. Overalls [linen overalls for "summer establishment" ]
10 W. Overalls [white kersey wool overalls for "winter establishment" ]
20 Shirts [linen; after April 1813, cotton. No ruffles found in U.S.M. Letters Sent. ]
3 Stocks
20 Shoes [laced, straight-last shoes, issued individually as needed ]
5 Blankets
3 Knapsacks
10 Socks [originally "15" written over to "10"; "Half Hose" ]
5 Gaiters [originally "4" written over to "5"; "black gaiters...to the knee" ]
3 Caps [folding leather fatigue USM model of 1811 ] }
5 Coats [prob. linen, whether short jacket or banyan (smock) type is unknown] } Fatigue
5 Trowsers [prob. linen] }
I have the honour to be respectfully your obt. servt
L. Bacon
Lt. Q.M.