Marine Corps

Count Down To Christmas: Marine Corps Christmas Ornaments

December 2, 2014 by info@3QuartersToday.com

USMC Christmas Ornaments

I love the holiday season and everything about it including Christmas carols, outdoor light displays, making candy, baking cookies, and especially my Marine Corps Christmas Ornaments.

To me, Christmas trees are a journey through life and memories of family and friends. Every year I open our ornament box and it’s a journey through our family history. It’s more than just commercialism and buying gifts. It’s preserving memories.

I Love Christmas Tree Ornaments

My Christmas tree is a memory tree, each ornament has a meaning or is significant. The tradition is each year I buy a Christmas ornament for each one of my kids which represents their life for that year. The promise is when each of them gets married and starts a family their box of ornaments will go with them to start their own family tree.

For instance, when my daughter played softball, it was a softball athlete ornament. When we took a ski trip to Colorado it was a skiing ornament from the resort. You get the picture.

Marine Moms are very sentimental and I would have to say every Marine Mom in the country has at LEAST one Marine Corps Christmas Ornament on their tree. In fact, I know some Marine Moms who decorate patriotic Christmas trees in a with red, white and blue ornaments and accents.

Our tradition is to open the ornaments first on Christmas Eve and although my boys don’t like to be Motards with a lot of Marine Corps paraphernalia. But they do like and appreciate their Marine Corps Christmas ornaments and look forward to them every year. This ornament is the first one I gave to my oldest son his first year in the Corps.

I’ve started shopping for this years, but I can’t spoil the surprise for my boys my posting it here. So for those Marine Mom’s looking for Marine or military holiday decorations or themed Christmas tree ornaments here are a few selections.

Marine Corps Ornaments on Amazon

I like Amazon, it’s fast, reliable, and if there are any shipping issues it’s taken care of promptly. They also have the biggest selection and have just about EVERYTHING! How do you like to decorate your tree, is it thematic, color coordinated, or a memory tree?

My Marine Mom Letter to the United States Marines

November 9, 2014 by info@3QuartersToday.com

Happy Birthday Marine Corps

I sit at my computer on the night of my youngest son’s Marine Corps Ball and reflect on the journey I’ve taken as a Marine Mom and want to say “Thank You.”

For four years I have been a Mother of two Marines. The first letter I wrote to the Marine Corps was more of a request. Two years later I have a different sentiment. Since then I have watched my sons grow into responsible, mature young men. The Marines have played a large part in developing the men they will be the rest of their life and I’m very proud of them both.

This year I was blessed to spend the longest quality, undivided, one on one time with my son. No competition with other siblings, no competing with friends, or capturing an hour here or there during a short military leave.

I was able to spend not hours, not one day, but several days in a row, getting to know my son on an adult level. The opportunity to stand back and observe, take them in and realize how much he has grown, how much I love him, and how proud I am of the man he has become.

So this year, my letter to the United Stated Marine Corps takes a little different spin.

A Letter From a Marine Mom

Dear Marine Corps,

I want to take this opportunity, on the Marine Corps birthday to thank you, from the bottom of this Marine Mom’s heart. A few years ago I loaned you my sons. You have treated them well and I am grateful.

Thank you for giving them clear expectations, with a clear set of guidelines and rewards when a job is well done. Thank you for teaching them to be aware of their surroundings, to defend themselves, to protect the weak, and stand firm against injustice. Not only against our enemy abroad, but in every day situations in life.

The Marine Corps taught my sons patience, tolerance, and the ability to adapt to changing situations.

Dealing with ever changing leave orders and plane reservations serves a purpose. It does carry forth to civilian life, especially when apartment plans, GI Bill delays, and schooling don’t go as planned. For this increased patience, thank you.

I have seen first hand the pride they take in being a part of a brotherhood. I’ve watched my sons interact with fellow Marines, not only with professionalism but respect.

It’s the everyday things that happen on a Marine base, the little things that mean a lot. The everyday event of colors and the national anthem played twice a day. While at the time this may not mean a thing, it gives them an anchor and pride in Corps and country in the future. A casual greeting of Semper Fi to a fellow Marine serves to remind each of them of the lifelong brotherhood they share and will remain “Always Faithful.”

Thanks to the Marine Corps, my sons had the opportunity to become leaders and volunteer in their communities.

They took advantage of continued education during active duty by taking classes. All this while becoming part of a long tradition of men and women serving their country.

This year I consider myself blessed to be a Marine Mom and I thank the Marine Corps for a few of those blessing.

Sincerely,

A Mother of Two Marines

The actual US Flag flown at Iwo Jima displayed at the National Marine Corps Museum

What changes have your seen in your son or daughter? I’d love to hear your insight on their experience.

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Why Is The Marine Corps Birthday So Important?

November 3, 2014 by info@3QuartersToday.com

When is the Marine Corps Birthday?

As November 10th rolls around United States Marines all over the world will recognize the Marine Corps Birthday.

Replica of Tun Tavern, home of the Marine Corps Birthday found at the National Marine Corps Museum just south of Washington DC.

Now just where was the Marine Corps born?

In a bar. Yes, you heard me right. On November 10, 1775, the Marine Corps was born in Tun Tavern, Philadelphia Pennsylvania, the owner and bartender became the first Marine recruiter.

The connection between a bar and the Marines very ironic, and underlying meaning not lost on this Marine Mom. Any Marine would LOVE this USMC t-shirt that rocks the birthplace of the Marines.

It seems only fitting the roughest, toughest, braggadocios fighting force in the world was born in a bar. You can still eat and drink at Tun Tavern, just not the original building. The replica Tun Tavern is located at the National Marine Corps Museum in Quantico Virginia.

But back to why the Marines celebrate this birthday is celebrated more than any other United States branch of the military.

As a Marine Mom, I notice an increased reverence and respect not only with my sons but from total strangers who tell me thank you for their service.

Why Is the Marine Corps Birthday Special to Marines?

My sons would be the first to say they aren’t doing anything special. But, what is special is the history, tradition, and honor of serving in the Marine Corps. Marines are often called arrogant, prideful, and the best self-promoters in the military.

Tell that to a Marine and they will say “Hell Yeah!” After being a Marine Mom for over ten years I’ve learned a little about the USMC culture and I agree.

“The United States Marine Corps is different from the other branches, they have a right to be proud of their heritage, history, and culture”

Once a Marine Always a Marine

Marine Moms also need to celebrate the USMC birthdy. This US Marine Corps neckalce is a great gift to a Marine Mom for Christmas or on the USMC birthday

I recently read a Facebook post from Marine Moe Thomas who “dressed down” an Army soldier and tried to insult the USMC because he was tired of their “arrogance.”

I will translate this into a Marine Mom perspective. But, if you would like to read the statement directly from a Marine head over to the One Marines View page.

What Makes Marines Special?

What makes Marines special is an elusive quality of Esprit De Corps. The fact that as individual Marines, they feel that they are not one, but part of a bigger unit that moves as one, a Corps. When a Marine puts on the uniform, hears the Hymn, or goes into battle, they are going with every other Marine who has ever worn the uniform.

They stand behind every Marine who fought during the birth of our nation. They learn in boot camp, and reminded throughout their career, that they follow a tradition of Marines who fought in WWI.

Marine Corps gifts are perfect for Christmas, birthdays or veterans. This United States Marine Corps wall clock is perfect for any Marine family or veteran. — This United

They gave birth to the legend of the “Teufel Hunden”, or “Devil Dogs”. They stand and represent Marines who took Iwo and Tarawa and countless other blood soaked islands throughout the Pacific.

The Chosin pass exhibit at the National Marine Corps museum

The legend of the “Frozen Chosin” and beloved Chesty Puller, Marines who battled at Hue City and Khe Sanh, and the muddy rice paddies of South East Asia are precursors of Marines of the future and battles fought in Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom and now, are fighting in Afghanistan.

Famous Marine Corps Quote- To observe a marine is inspriational, to be a Marine is exceptional.

Like real brothers, their blood courses through our veins, and then we go into battle, they would rather lay down their lives than be a disappointment to the men and women who went before them. They carry a legacy, their deaths, and their honor which carries with them the rest of their lives.

The Marines are "first in and last out". USMC t-shirts are perfect for a Marine veterans.

The Marines Corps uniform doesn’t come off when active duty is over. Inactive and retired Marines where the symbol daily in our attitude, and our love of Corps and country.

They wear it on tattoos and bumper stickers. They wear it in their hearts. It’s why, no matter where we are in the world, on November 10th, every Marine celebrates the Marine Corps birthday.

Once a Marine Always a Marine Bumper Sticker
by usmarines

It’s why they will never be an army of one. It’s why they never stop being Marines. It’s why, for most of them, being a Marine isn’t something they were. It’s something they are. It’s the most important part of who and what we are. Some say they’re arrogant.

A Marine will say they are proud. They have a right to be proud. They are the United States Marines. The most feared and ferocious group of warriors to walk the face of this earth.

This homemade USMC wall sign is perfect for a Marine Corps family. Hang Marine Corps decor in your home or office.

When Americas’ enemies formulate their battle plans, they plan on going around Marine units, because they know damn well that they can’t go through them. Marines are what other branches wish they were.

They are the modern-day Spartans. This isn’t bragging. It’s written in the battle history of our country.

When there’s a parade and the Marines march by, everyone pays a little more attention. Some say “arrogance”. The Marines and their Mothers call it “pride”. It’s why, in a crowd of servicemen, you can always spot the Marine.

This USMC EGA wood art plaque would make a great Chrismtas gift for a Marine veteran or family.

Why are Marines special? I don’t know. We just are.”

By the way, any Marine would LOVE the USMC wood art plaque above. If you have a Marine recruiter it would look fantastic over their desk.

Visiting the Marine Corps Museum

If you ever need to learn why the Marine is special then visit the USMC National Museum.

My biggest honor was visiting the National Marine Corps Museum with my son on my birthday. We spent two days immersed in not only Marine history, but American, World, and Military History.

The bravery, guts, and out and out “can do” attitude of the Marines, doing what others said couldn’t be done, going where other branches would go, and not giving up is a trait of the United States Marine Corps.

I stayed on a Navy and Marine base, at the guest hotel, and when colors played I stepped out of my room, stood silently and watched every Marine, every car, and every person stop where they were in respect for the flag, tradition, and country.

It may not mean much to some, but this Marine Moms heart swelled as I heard my son casually greet another Marine on the sidewalk with Semper Fi. Always Faithful, a small reminder to another Marine they represent a brotherhood that will last a lifetime.

I’m proud of my sons and I’m proud of the United States Marine Corps.

Happy Birthday, Marines! Have a great ball, celebrate, and yes, stand a little taller and be a little arrogant. You deserve it!

Marine Corps Traditions Semper Fi (The Corps series Book 1)

Visiting the United States Marine Corps National Museum

October 2, 2014 by info@3QuartersToday.com

Recently I had the honor and privilege of visiting the National Marine Corps Museum with one of my Marine sons and it was amazing! As another Marine who was visiting said excitingly “This place is like Mecca to a Marine” and I would have to agree. It puts the Smithsonian museums to shame. The museum is located in Quantico Virginia and opened in 2005, so the exhibits are very modern, interactive and engaging.

Information about the USMC Museum

National Museum : Marine Corps — Entry to the Marine Corps Museum

The Marine Corps museum is located 30 miles south of Washington DC and the silhouette of the building is easily seen from I-95 which invokes images of the flag raising on Iwo Jima.

Admission cost is free. Yes, free, free parking and free admission. There are a few donation boxes and I would bet just about everyone puts a few dollars in the box. The official National Marine Corps Museum website is just as engaging as the museum and as it guides you to each area with the same narration. But nothing will prepare you for the full immersion.

I’m only going to give a brief overview here and will go into more depth in future articles. We spent two days at the museum and they had to push us out at the end. If you plan on visiting and you have a Marine or two with you, wear good shoes, plan on standing a lot and plan on reading and learning more than you ever expected about United States history, military history, and world history.

Marine Corps Museum Exhibits and History

As you enter the museum you are all at once overwhelmed by the feeling of space, air, and majesty of the Corps. Planes hang overhead, helicopters with Marines piling out are beside you on one side and a tank on the other.

As you look up you read the inspiring quotes of leaders, presidents, and generals:

“I have just returned from visiting the Marines at the front and there is not a finer fighting organization in the world”

General Douglas McArthur, Army

Main Gallery of the Marine Corps Museum — Main Gallery of the Marine Museum

From the terrazzo gallery, you enter into the rest of the Museum in a logical order starting with Making Marines where you can get up close and personal with your own “Drill Instructor” experience. (more on this later)

National Marine Corps Museum: Receiving and haircuts at boot camp — Receiving and haircuts at boot camp

The rest of the museum starts at Tun Tavern, the birthplace of the Marines and their involvement in the Revolutionary War. Throughout the six historical galleries I learned where famous phrases such as “the shores of Tripoli” originated.

United States Marine Corps National Museum: The actual flag flown on Mt. Sarabaci on Iwo Jima — The actual flag flown on Mt. Sarabaci on Iwo Jima

My son soaked all of this history in, he read every placard, and for me it made me slow down (I can be slightly ADD, those who know me will smile at that statement) and absorb what I was reading. I learned history repeats itself, throughout the history of the world there have been terrorists (pirates) who attack without rationale and kill innocent people without reason.

Terrorists Have Terrorized the World for Centuries, It’s Not New

I learned we have had embassies in Libya as early as 1805 and Marines joined a coalition to rescue American and Europeans during the Christian persecution during the Boxer Rebellion in China. In many ways, we have the same political issues, just in different areas of the world.

There will always be pirates, rebels, and terrorists who want to terrorize, oppress and kill people just because they do not agree with their religion. There will be dictators and governments who want to dominate and control their citizens. But there are countries around the world who believe in freedom, who will fight to keep their citizens free and protect those who are being oppressed.

The Marines have played a critical role in keeping “bullies” from taking over and as you walk through the galleries you take pride in not only the United States military, but the resolve of the citizens supporting them at home. I learned very little about World War I in school, or maybe I just forgot most of it, but as you walk into the sights and sounds of Belleau Wood you can’t help but start to realize the enormity of battle, the loss of life, and the true horror of war.

Mini Iwo Jima Statue honoring the United States Marine Corps.

As you walk through each historical exhibit they get more and more engaging from the cold of Chosin Pass to the heat and chopper sounds of Vietnam. It is a truly an experience. Throughout our visit we encountered Marines of every age, and veterans of many wars. I witnessed exchanges between my son and these veterans which warmed my heart and made this Mom smile with pride. The respect and honor is very apparent and I feel privileged I got to experience this with my son.

Marine Corps Museum:Past and Present

The last gallery ends with Vietnam in 1972, but 2015 begins the start of another 110,000 sq feet of exhibit space which will finish out the museum in 2020. It will start in the 1970s and expand to Operation Desert Storm, Desert Shield, Iraq, and Afghanistan.

After experiencing the intensity of conflict and war you can walk on the paths that take you through a 135 acre Marine Corps Heritage Center campus, through Memorial Park, beside the chapel, and which will eventually include parade grounds a conference center and a hotel.

Memorial Walkway at the US Marine Museum

The Story of the United States Marine Heritage Center Is…

To record our contributions to the nation
To tell our story
To preserve our artifacts and icons
To give back to the Corps

If you are ever in the Washington DC area, take a day and head south on I-95, even if you don’t have any connection to the Marine Corps. It is an experience for anybody and we saw veterans, school groups, women, children (there is a childrens section), and people from various countries.

I would love to hear from anyone who has visited the National Marine Corps Museum and learning about your favorite section and why. Please leave a comment below and until “Part Two”, Semper Fi!

Leathernecks: An Illustrated History of the United States Marine Corps Greatest U.S. Marine Corps Stories Ever Told: Unforgettable Stories Of Courage, Honor, And Sacrifice Marines: An Illustrated History: The United States Marine Corps from 1775 to the 21st Century (Illustrated History (Zenith Press))Another P.O.G. Story: Memoir of A Marine Motor-Transport Reservist During Operation Iraqi Freedom

Marine Corps Values

March 29, 2014 by info@3QuartersToday.com

Marine Corps values of loyalty, pride, strength, and integrity are what I have seen in my sons as they continue their career in the US Marines.

If your son or daughter is thinking about the Marine Corps I would highly recommend it.

The delayed entry program through the local recruiting center gives them a taste of the leadership skills, teamwork, discipline and confidence building that will help them succeed during boot camp.

Recruits also learn the Young Marines Obligation, which states, “From this day forward, I sincerely promise, I will set an example for all other youth to follow and I shall never do anything that would bring disgrace or dishonor upon God, my Country and its flag, my parents, myself or the Young Marines.

These I will honor and respect in a manner that will reflect credit upon them and myself. Semper Fidelis.”

In some areas, the Young Marines program is available for youth ages eight to 18. The program instills a sense of dedication, honor, and commitment to country along with patriotism. They learn to honor and respect themselves and others.

I am a very proud Marine Mom and designing Marine clothing and gifts on CafePress is just one way I express my pride. This design is one of my favorites.