December 2007 Newsletter 12/27/07 8:32 AM

December 2007 Newsletter

Merry Christmas Marines! In This Issue

Merry Christmas Marines! Videos This Month A letter from a 2nd Lieutenant Buddies Found - TWS Success Stories! Marines in Combat; November/December - The Battle of the Chosin Reservoir Reunions & Get Togethers TWS Marine Store - For All Your Marine Merchandise Needs! Member Comments Liberty Call - San Diego! Petraeus: Violence in Iraq Down, But Fight Not Over Christmas Greetings and Gifts Website of Interest; Cpl Jason Dunham (MOH) Memorial Page TWS Invite Cards - Free for the asking Trade Banner Links with TWS 2007 USO Marine of the Year; Sgt Justin Clough SemperToon of the Month

Marine Corps History from the Month of December

The "Today in Marine Corps History" link from the TWS Home Page displays significant events of Marine Corps history. Below is a link to the Here's wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! events for the Month of November. Marine Corps History during the I offer a crisp Hand Salute to every Marine who has ever served and to those of month of December you that are currently in harms way.

I would urge each of your pause for a moment during your celebrations this year to remember those who have gone before and paid the ultimate price, may they never be forgotten.

Also, let's not forget the Reason for the Season. Whatever your religious beliefs, Military News - Around the Services Christmas is the season of giving and sharing with those who are less fortunate. Please consider offering a hand to those in need by donating to a worthy charity, help a widowed or elderly neighbor, etc. Just look around you, those that need your help are never hard to find.

We here at TWS are proud to have you aboard and consider it a privilege to serve you. Our hope is that you will enjoy your year end celebrations and do it as safely as possible. If you drink, please dont' drive and if you drive, please don't drink.

Until next year...

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and Semper Fidelis! LIFESAVERS LEAD THE WAY - USCG Petty http://marines.togetherweserved.com/usmc/newsletter/36/newsletter.html Page 1 of 13 December 2007 Newsletter 12/27/07 8:32 AM

LIFESAVERS LEAD THE WAY - USCG Petty Officer 2nd Class Travis Vanzandt carries a young Maj Wes Prater (Ret) child, followed by the child's family and their dog TWS Co-Founder/Administrator during a recent rescue in Washington State. The Coast Guard evacuated or provided medical assistance to residents living in remote regions of Videos This Month the Pacific Northwest that were hammered by torrential rains and floods earlier this month. Shared Video of the Month... Vanzandt and his helicopter crew are based at USCG Air Station Astoria, OR. - USCG photo by PA2 Mariana O'Leary

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - Army Prepares to Launch New Pay, Personnel System - US Generals: "Jury Still Out" on Flow of Weapons From Iran - Coalition, Afghan Forces Defeat Taliban in Two Operations - Nigerian Native Serves With Pride as American Soldier This one's just fun: The Wedding, THE first dance... - Arab World Must Support Iraqi Progress, SECDEF Says - Afghan Soldiers, Police Begin EOD Course - Army Unit, Civil Affairs Team Hand Out $10,000 in A letter from a 2nd Lieutenant Micro-grants "I walked into the house where the ball was being held and I immediately saw an - Foreign Area Officers Help Bridge Cultural Divides old Marine in his Dress Blues bearing the rank of a Private First Class. I waited until the herd around him cleared and I approached him to find out his story. He was wearing a Purple Heart on his chest and I proceeded to ask him where he was awarded this medal.

He told me that he was shot on the Island of Iwo Jima during WWII in 1945. I asked him to elaborate and he looked around and pointed at the chair behind him and said, "Have a seat young man." We sat down and he fumbled around for the words to express what happened that day in February 1945 and he got choked up and said that he cannot tell me much of what happened even though he thinks about it everyday. He revealed very little information and then humbly pointed to EYES OF HOPE - A Bangladeshi boy watches as his son and told me that if I wanted to know what really happened I should to food rations are offloaded from a CH-46E assigned ask him. So I did... to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 166 (Reinforced), 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) This is the story of PFC "Uncle Al" United States Marine... He enlisted at 17 with Special Operations Capable (SOC). The amphibious the required signature of his parents. Because of his athletic ability and his speed assault ship USS Tarawa (LHA 1) and the embarked they made him a runner for the Company Commander. These were the days 11th MEU (SOC) are conducting Humanitarian when the runner actually had to run. His boat landed on the beach of Iwo Jima, Assistance/Disaster Relief efforts in response to the opposite the side of the famous Mount Suribachi. The Company Commander ran government of Bangladesh's request for assistance up the shore and over the hill to survey. The Captain deemed the shore all clear after Tropical Cyclone Sidr struck their southern and turned to call for his runner, PFC Uncle Al, following orders like a good coast Nov. 15. The storm killed over 3,000 people Marine, came blitzing up the shore to take his position next to the Captain. As he and has left several hundred thousand homeless. was running, a Japanese sniper shot him with a bullet that went through his right - USMC photo by Sgt. Bryson K. Jones eye and exited through his left jaw. During this bloody battle, only the Marines who the corpsman thought were going to! live were evacuated. So Uncle Al, MARINE CORPS having received a bullet wound to the head was passed over for evacuation. He - RAV sweeps through Iraq, hundreds of Marines re- hung on for two days until they realized that he was still very much alive and enlist could survive. They took him to the hospital and they repaired his face and sent - Marines rock the boat him home. - Most decorated MEU adds OEF, OIF Battle Streamers on 25th anniversary Uncle Al stood before the guests of the ball as the oldest Marine present and - N.C. native transforms from troublemaker to Marine gave a speech. This 78 year-old former PFC emotionally confessed that the Dress role model Blue uniform that he was wearing tonight was the first time he had ever put on - Iwakuni police exercise promotes strong bond with that distinguished uniform. His family had heard that he was invited to this ball station's PMO and had the uniform made so he could appear in it before us. As he gave his - 29 Palms: Time of Pearl Harbor Attack brief speech he claimed that he would re-enlist all over again if he had the - Recon plays key role in humanitarian relief chance. - Okinawa Marine serves with POET As a proud Second Lieutenant, wearing his Dress Blues with a bold strut and a http://marines.togetherweserved.com/usmc/newsletter/36/newsletter.html Page 2 of 13 December 2007 Newsletter 12/27/07 8:32 AM

As a proud Second Lieutenant, wearing his Dress Blues with a bold strut and a confidence that could be seen by a blind man, I just stood there, humbled and crushed, feeling unworthy to wear the same uniform as this former Private First Class. I failed to remember that the only reason this uniform that I was wearing is distinguished is because of men like PFC Uncle Al. I just casually put it on and thought to myself, "Wow, this is the best looking uniform in the world!" I was definitely proud to put it on, yet I neglected to acknowledge its blood-stained legacy. I got a glimpse that night of what it really means to bear the title of a United States Marine. Here before me was a man who had every right to boast yet he didn't even want to talk about himself rather he wanted me, as a young Marine, to never forget those Marines who fought on every Island in the Pacific and who never had the chance to put on that proud uniform. This is the legacy of our nation's Marine Corps and a reminder of the valiant Marines who have secured and continue to secure that legacy. HICKAM AIRMEN REMEMBER DECEMBER 7, 1941 - Airmen from the Professional Military Education Center (PMEC) at Hickam AFB, Hawaii, present U.S. flags flown over Hickam's Atterbury 2Lt Barnes, Fox Company, TBS" Memorial Park to each of five surviving Airmen and a widow of a survivor of the Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Date: 12 November 2007 Hickam Field. The ceremony, an annual tradition, Source: Seamus Garahay's "All Hands" email network was held in the Courtyard of Heroes lobby inside the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) headquarters building. Semper Fi Lt. Barnes, well said! - USAF photo by Oscar Hernandez

AIR FORCE Buddies Found - TWS Success Stories! - Wreath ceremonies to honor veterans in December Can you find Marines on TWS? - Airmen support Bangladesh relief operations - Alaska Guard conducts Operation Santa Claus More Success Stories this month - Deployed Airmen remember Pearl Harbor, Hickam attacks "I will continue to spread the word... because of your site I have - Award winning program prevents suicides been put in contact with 4 old enlisted buddies that I have not heard - PME classrooms open for sister service from in over 20 years... Thanks!"

LtCol Paul Beckwith

"I found Curtis Williamson, thanks to Cpl Reilly I found him in one day and haven't heard from him since 1967!"

Cpl Chip Callahan

"The meaning of Semper Fi! I have found many old friends and made friends with new Marines. I have found one DI, a friend from boot camp (now a Gunny), and about 20 that I served with at various places. I have even had the great fortune to get together with some and continue friendships. I think I have learned more about what "Semper Fi" means since I have gotten out than when I was in!"

LCpl Kevin Sadaj

"This site has been great, not only for re-connecting with old friends but for making new ones as well. The information I have gathered THE DEVASTATION FROM ABOVE - The coastal from TWS has also been invaluable. I have had nothing but joy town of Vernonia, OR., was hard hit by heavy rains being on this site. Semper Fi to all my brothers and sisters out there on Dec. 2 and 3. Oregon's governor, Theodore I have re-established Comm's with and look forward to all of the Kulongoski, surveyed the storm damage from an future ones I have yet to meet." Oregon ArNG UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter on Dec. 4. GySgt Orlando Reyes - Photo by TSgt. Nick Choy, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Help TWS to become an even more powerful buddy-finder, spread the ARMY word about TWS by inviting other Marines to join! - National Guard Rescues Hundreds in Oregon http://marines.togetherweserved.com/usmc/newsletter/36/newsletter.html Page 3 of 13 December 2007 Newsletter 12/27/07 8:32 AM

- National Guard Rescues Hundreds in Oregon Flooding - Ghurkhas Train with U.S. Soldiers in India - Fort Irwin Soldier wins Operation Rising Star Marines in Combat; November/December - The Battle of Singing Contest the Chosin Reservoir - Army's High School All-American Bowl Selection In mid-October of 1950, it seemed that the Tour Underway Korean War was all but over. Almost all of - New PT program helps pregnant Soldiers North Korea had been taken by the United Nation forces, which were spearheaded by the United States. The feeling that the war was in its final stages was short-lived, however, as AirForce.TogetherWeServed.com the battle of Chosin Reservoir loomed on the horizon. The United States made a grave error in misjudging the intentions of China, which helped to precipitate the Battle of It's official, TWS has Chosin Reservoir. When the seventeen day conflict was over, the Battle of Chosin grown again and is Reservoir would be a defeat for the UN forces, but remembered as one of the now home for another United States Marines finest hours. our our sister services, The brutality of the North Koreans, who massacred civilians and prisoners during AirForce.TWS opened the Korean War, was well known. The American led UN forces were looking on 21 Dec 2008 and will no doubt soon grow into forward to a total victory over what they considered a barbaric enemy. However, THE place on the web for Air Warriors of all eras. China had warned that if UN forces crossed the 38th parallel, Chinese troops would come into the war. Without a seat at the UN, and with no diplomatic Please help spread the word to any Air Force relations with the United States, the true intentions of the Chinese government Veterans you may know. were muddied by poor communication. In their white fur uniforms, the Chinese blended into the snow on the ground as they crossed the border into northeast AirForce.TogetherWeServed.com Korea, where the Chosin Reservoir was located. 20,000 UN troops would quickly be encircled by 200,000 Chinese soldiers. Jobs for Marines The UN armies, under the command of General Douglas MacArthur, had been given orders to advance to the Yalu River, which was on the border of China, after their decisive victory at Inchon in September. The US Eighth Army and the If you've recently left the Corps or X Corps, headed by Lieutenant General Ned Almond, comprised of the US First plan to transition soon, you should Marine Division and elements of the US Seventh Infantry Division, along with visit the TWS Jobs board often. Independent Commando Royal Marines, moved toward the river. They were totally unaware of the Chinese activity, despite their surveillance. By late All positions, described in detail, are posted by fellow November, they were surrounded and their advance had been halted by the TWS Members who are familiar with the credentials poorly equipped, but overwhelming, Communist horde. and experience offered by Marines. On November 26, 1950, the order was given to make a fighting withdrawal to the Additionally, if your company has any positions south, towards the seaside city of Hungnam. Ten Chinese divisions, along with suited to Marines seeking employment, you are very North Korean soldiers, formed a gauntlet that the retreating men would welcome to post these on the Job Board. This is a knowingly have to cope with. An American unit from the Seventh Infantry was FREE service to TWS subscribers isolated on the eastern side of the Chosin reservoir and eventually all but wiped out by a Chinese division. Major General O. P. Smith, commanding the First Post a Job on TWS Marines, was ordered to lead the breakout to the south to escape the trap. The incredible cold, including temperatures as low as 48 degrees below zero, made Currently Posted Positions the march and fighting unbearable. Smith was quoted thusly when asked if he was retreating. "Retreat, Hell! We're attacking in a different direction."

As they withdrew, the Marines were indeed attacking, or under attack by the TWS Book Store - Featured Book of the swarming Chinese. The UN forces enjoyed air supremacy; their bombers flew Month hundreds of missions a day against the Chinese. Over 4,000 wounded were evacuated out of the Chosin Reservoir when the weather cleared sufficiently, with The TWS Book Store continues to grow in popularity some 500 reinforcements flown in. The intense cold would take its toll on both and we're proud to feature a new book each month sides as the conflict wore on. As they escaped, the Marines and soldiers of interest to you as Marines. The store contains one obliterated a full seven divisions of Chinese warriors as they tried to stop them. of the largest selections of military books and DVD sets available. Find what you are looking for here at Survivors of this action recalled how the Chinese would attack. They came in lowest prices with fast delivery. The MTWS Book waves, with the first wave coming down upon the Marines the only one that Store is available on the left hand Home Page as actually had guns. When they were killed, the second wave would advance and you log into NTWS or by clicking on this link: grab up the weapons and fight on. The third wave came and took the guns from the dying second wave to battle with. Some soldiers swore that a fourth wave of Marines.TogetherWeServed Book Chinese would remain behind and machine gun any of their own troops that Store thought of retreating. http://marines.togetherweserved.com/usmc/newsletter/36/newsletter.html Page 4 of 13 December 2007 Newsletter 12/27/07 8:32 AM

Store thought of retreating.

The weather made it almost impossible for the UN army to be re-supplied, until it cleared in early December. Ammunition and rations were dropped from the air, but the fight was far from over. The Marines and soldiers still had to fight through to the port of Hungnam to evacuate by ship. The Marines took their dead with them, sometimes having to lash them to the tops and fenders of their vehicles. The bodies were frozen solid; the grisly decision often was made to literally break off dead soldiers' arms so they would fit on or in transporting vehicles. Wounded men, because of the frigid temperatures, actually saw their blood freeze where they were hit. Many Marines froze to death, while several thousands of men suffered frostbite.

Finally, on December 11, 1950, the withdrawal was complete. Technically a TWS Book of the this month is "Breakout, Chosin defeat, the heroism and valor of the Marines attracted attention from around the Reservoir Campaign, Korea, 1950" globe. They had inflicted massive numbers of casualties on the enemy. 2,500 UN forces had been killed, 5,000 wounded and 7,500 were suffering from frostbite. In BREAKOUT: The Chosin Reservoir Campaign, contrast, the enemy had ten times the number of dead, 12,500 wounded and Korea 1950. Martin Russ - Author. On General 30,000 frostbite victims. Douglas MacArthur's orders, a force of 12,000 U.S. Marines were marching north to the Yalu river in late The entire X-Corps was withdrawn from North Korea. Hungnam was destroyed, November 1950. These three regiments of the 1st so as to be of no use to the Communists. The Marines returned to the south, Marine Division--strung out along eighty miles of a where they fought once again with the UN side until an armistice was called in narrow mountain road--soon found themselves July of 1953. Despite their terrible losses, the Marines defiantly consider the completely surrounded by 60,000 Chinese soldiers. Battle of Chosin Reservoir to be one of their proudest moments. Even now, do Despite being given up for lost by the military brass, not mention to a Marine the word "retreat" when discussing this battle. The the 1st Marine Division fought its way out of the Chinese as well felt proud; for the first time in a century they had defeated a frozen mountains, miraculously taking thier dead and Western army in a major conflict. To this very day, historians consider the Battle wounded with them as they ran the gauntlet of of Chosin Reservoir the most savage battle of modern times. unceasing Chinese attacks. This is the gripping story that Martin Russ tells in his extraordinary book. Breakout is an unforgettable portrayal of the terror and courage of men as they face sudden death, Lieutenant Colonel Raymond G. Davis, making the bloody battles of the Korean hills and U.S. Marine Corps commanding officer, 1st valleys come alive as they never have before. 464 Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division pages (Rein.). Place and date: Vicinity Hagaru-ri, Korea, 1 through 4 December 1950. received Order this book from the TWS Book Store here the MEDAL OF HONOR

CITATION: For conspicuous gallantry and TWS Get-Together - "Island Storm 2008" intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of the 1st Battalion, in action against enemy aggressor forces. Although keenly aware that the operation involved breaking through a surrounding enemy and advancing 8 miles along primitive icy trails in the bitter cold with every passage disputed by a savage and determined foe, Lt. Col. Davis boldly led his battalion into the attack in a daring attempt to relieve a beleaguered rifle company and to seize, hold, and defend a vital mountain pass controlling the only route available for 2 marine regiments in danger of being cut off by numerically superior hostile forces during their re-deployment to the port of Hungnam. When the battalion immediately encountered strong opposition from entrenched enemy forces commanding high ground in the path of the advance, he promptly TWS Get Together - Island Storm 2008 spearheaded his unit in a fierce attack up the steep, ice-covered slopes in the face of withering fire and, personally leading the assault groups in a hand-to- What: The first "Officially Sponsored" TWS Get- hand encounter, drove the hostile troops from their positions, rested his men, Together and reconnoitered the area under enemy fire to determine the best route for continuing the mission. Always in the thick of the fighting Lt. Col. Davis led his Where: MCRD Parris Island, SC battalion over 3 successive ridges in the deep snow in continuous attacks against the enemy and, constantly inspiring and encouraging his men throughout the When: Friday/Saturday, 11&12 April 2008 night, brought his unit to a point within 1,500 yards of the surrounded rifle company by daybreak. Although knocked to the ground when a shell fragment Dates have been set and a DRAFT Itinerary for the struck his helmet and 2 bullets pierced his clothing, he arose and fought his way http://marines.togetherweserved.com/usmc/newsletter/36/newsletter.html Page 5 of 13 December 2007 Newsletter 12/27/07 8:32 AM

Dates have been set and a DRAFT Itinerary for the struck his helmet and 2 bullets pierced his clothing, he arose and fought his way event is available here forward at the head of his men until he reached the isolated marines. On the following morning, he bravely led his battalion in securing the vital mountain pass PFC Jack Lucas (Medal of Honor, Iwo Jima) has from a strongly entrenched and numerically superior hostile force, carrying all his graciously agreed to be the TWS Guest of Honor at wounded with him, including 22 litter cases and numerous ambulatory patients. this event and will conduct a book signing of his Despite repeated savage and heavy assaults by the enemy, he stubbornly held book "Indestructible" the day before the event at the the vital terrain until the 2 regiments of the division had deployed through the MCA Book Store on the Island. pass and, on the morning of 4 December, led his battalion into Hagaru-ri intact. By his superb leadership, outstanding courage, and brilliant tactical ability, Lt. TWS is coordinating this event and will provide for a Col. Davis was directly instrumental in saving the beleaguered rifle company from single registration and fee to cover the following: complete annihilation and enabled the 2 marine regiments to escape possible -Custom TWS/Get Together Polo Shirt destruction. His valiant devotion to duty and unyielding fighting spirit in the face -Charter Bus Transportation for Both Days of almost insurmountable odds enhance and sustain the highest traditions of the -(2) meals at the RTR Chow Hall U.S. Naval Service. -Catered BBQ *Billeting and Travel will be individual arrangements. Reunions & Get Togethers The TWS Reunions & Get Together's Forum Board has grown into a clearing Attendance will likely be limited to only 300 house of information. Make a note to check the boards regularly and often, you're members. If you are interested in attending, please sure to find an announcement of interest. Here's but a few samples: send an email to [email protected] to get on the mailing list for updates as they become Northeast/Buffalo August 2, 2008 available. Upper Midwest May 16-18 2008 1st Battalion 27th Marines (Vietnam) May 29 - June 1st 2008

We look forward to seeing your there! There are many more reunions posted, click here to see them all or post your own.

Member Submitted photos of the month TWS Marine Store - For All Your Marine Merchandise Needs! TWS now hosts more than 410,000 member Pay a visit to our online TWS Marine Store. For all your Marine Merchandise submitted photos (you uploaded over 19,000 photos needs - Shirts, Jackets, Hats, Jewelry, Footwear, Medals, Patches and much, were uploaded in the last month) - here's a small much more! sampling... (The Marine Store can also be found under the "Marine Store" tab or on the left hand Home Page just as you log into TWS)

Over 9000 Quality Items at lowest prices and a 30 day money back guarantee! Here are some brand new items just arrived:

USMC Golf Shirts (Various logos and colors) Jostens Classic Women's U.S. Marine Corps Ring - Oval Stone TWS Window Stickers - Final Offer USMC Medals & Ribbons (They're almost gone!) Belleville Insulated Combat Boot

You asked for them on the Forums and they're "I'm, a new customer, and a satisfied one at that. Your service is excellent, and so are your almost gone! This is likely the last time they will be prices - talk about time to receive items! Its service like the old days. Semper Fi" offered here. Cpl Rogers Alexandre (Gunner)

Thank you for your support of the TWS Marine Store. All Store proceeds go towards advertising the TWS website, bringing more Marines to the TWS Community.

Member Comments "I joined this website eight days ago after being told of it by a former Marine/Police Officer that used to work for me, I'm now retired. I have been to numerous people finder websites with some success trying to locate brothers from the past. After much searching I found two that I had not seen or heard from in over 30 years. One of them I went to visit in July '06 when I took a http://marines.togetherweserved.com/usmc/newsletter/36/newsletter.html Page 6 of 13 December 2007 Newsletter 12/27/07 8:32 AM

from in over 30 years. One of them I went to visit in July '06 when I took a motorcycle trip to Utah and ultimately rode 5316 miles. Within 48 hours on this site I found and emailed my former series officer from boot camp in 1971, former series commander from the drill field in 1974-75 and a drill instructor that I worked with in 1975. I also located and sent an email to a Marine that I went through boot camp with; I have not received a response from him yet. This is without a doubt the most amazing website I have ever seen. The technical skill The stickers are a 4" x 6" rectangle printed on vinyl and brain-power behind it is beyond my comprehension. I have barely been able with adhesive on the back for mounting outside the to pull myself away from the computer for chow or a head call. My compliments glass. These are high-quality stickers suitable for and thanks to those who had the foresight and knowledge to put something this exposure to the elements. complex and efficient together. You have done a great service for those of whom Together We Served. Semper Fi!" To keep it simple, they're only being offered for sale Mike Marrion" in packs of 3 for a flat cost of $10, which includes 1stSgt Mike (Mad Dog) Marrion shipping. This first-run batch (which may be the only one) is of limited quantity so order yours now. "This is amazing sir, I just set up my account since I just heard of it through word of mouth. I am so excited and have added many of old friends to my Just send Cash, check or Money Order, payable to brothers and some of which have fallen and it warms my heart to see they were W.T.Prater, P.O. Box 50, Bryantsville, KY 40410. allready remembered by someone posting them a profile. These are only being offered in quantities of 3, just Thank You" to keep it simple, but you can order 6, 9, 12, as SSgt Daniel Shawr many as you want. Payment can also be made via PayPal to [email protected], please "This is a powerful site. Much thanks to you and all those who help to create this be sure to include your mailing address with the site. Much needed!" payment. Cpl Kevin Bufford

Special thanks to Ken Foran for providing the "I think this is great. I'm glad my doc told me about this. It's nice to know that artwork for these stickers. Cpl Ken Foran there is a site that gives all Marines past and present an opportunity to keep in touch with one another, especially Marines that might have made a difference in our lives. For this I thank you!" Movies for Marines Cpl Travis DeVoid

"I just wanted to take a moment to thank [The Founders] for developing this awesome website. We have already found about 20 brothers that have been out of contact since we all served together between 87 and 95...some of us haven't talked in 10 or 15 years. I even made contact with the guide from my bootcamp platoon, and I haven't seen him since graduation day 1987. It is just great to be in contact again and I wanted to personally send my thanks. All the Marines I know that are using TWS can't stop saying how great it is to be in touch and how awesome (and almost addictive)the TWS site is...thanks again, and Semper Fi. " Sgt Tommy Thompson

Liberty Call - San Diego!

Beowulf What is there "new" to tell about this story? Whether you have read the book or seen it in a previous movie version, there isn't much else to say. What is exciting about this make is the cool graphics and of course the age old marketing ploy, "sex sells", depending on who you are asking. Angelina Jolie is Grendel's mother and Ray Winstone makes a pretty good lookin' animated version of Beowulf.

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San Diego, CA is a class A liberty port by anyone's standards. With miles of sandy beaches to roam and an average 70 degree year-round temperature, it's no wonder San Diego is a premier travel destination. Explore Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo, take a harbor cruise or tour PETCO Park, home of the Padres.

The city welcomes Marines, sailors and their families to visit its 45+ attractions, including county, state and regional parks, museums, theme parks, and MCRD. Additionally, San Diego has unparalleled shopping, numerous golf courses as well as family-friendly hotels, fine restaurants and exciting nightlife.

The San Diego Events Calendar allows you to plan your vacation and the calendar is updated continually by the guide?s editor. There?s no time like the present to visit San Diego. The perfect season for a San Diego vacation or a romantic getaway is now! Year round San Diego is host to exciting seasonal festivals, art weeks, shows and exhibitions, street fairs, performances and events. You can read about some of the major events in town in the San Diego Events I'm Not There Calendar. I personally like something fresh and brought to light from a different perspective. I haven't seen very Many Hotels in San Diego often offer vacation packages that include admission to many movies (if at all) that show a person from so some area attractions. You can also select hotel accommodations using one of many different points of view. In this movie six the many internet sites that offer combined airfare, car rentals and lodging, many different characters are potraying a different aspect at greatly discounted rates. of Bob Dylan's life. I have an appreciation of his music. I am not from the era that his music was first Of special interest to Marines and their families, there's the MCRD Command introduced to the world but I can certainly appreciate Museum. Ever dream of taking your wife and/or kids to see where you worked so good music when it comes along, especially when it hard to earn the title of United States Marine! Now you can by taking them to embodies the life and times of the period in which it MCRD and see where you were transformed from a civilian to a United States was made. I do not mean to speak of Bob Dylan's Marine. You can visit the museum for free and there's free parking, too, or if you music as in a past tense manner as a form of have a computer available, you can take the virtual tour the museum offers. The disrespect to anyone because I know some grew up, museum is open to the public from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through came of age, or lived when he first performed.There Saturday (until 4:30 on Thursdays). Admission is free and military identification is are a few querks to the way the movie was made, not required, although admittance to the Depot requires a photo identification shall we say a few slip ups; 310 area code didn't card, driver's license, and proof of insurance if driving on the base. come out until the 90's to name one example. I look for those little things for some odd reason. I liked the For more information about the sights and sounds that San Diego has to offer, movie and found it to be different than most of the contact the Visitor Information Center which can be found at the California Center movies that are coming out these days. for Performing Arts in Escondido, 360 North Escondido Blvd, Escondido, CA 92025. It?s Hours of Operation are from Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Note: Holiday hours can vary). You can call them at (760-745-4741) or use their Toll Free number, 800-848-3336.

When it comes to a great family get-away, San Diego is the place to be. San Diego offers more family-friendly theme parks and attractions to keep everyone occupied your entire stay! Use the following links to assess the best family activity:

San Diego Events Calendar Top Ten Family Attractions Kid Friendly Beaches MCRD San Diego Museum/Historical Society Thanks toHM3 Lawrence (Doc) McTernan for this months suggestion.

Petraeus: Violence in Iraq Down, But Fight Not Over By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service

I am Legend BAGHDAD - Violence in Iraq has dropped significantly in recent months, but it's First and foremost, this movie received a lot of press, still too soon to declare the home stretch in U.S. operations here, the commander but I would expect nothing less from a Will Smith of Multinational Force Iraq said today. movie honestly, even something controversial. This

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movie honestly, even something controversial. This movie doesn't fit that bill but I wonder if Will would ever do a controversial movie. Ok, on to the review... Anytime you find a movie is supposed to be based on book, I tend to cringe. Who better to read the book and apply their own imagination than ourselves? That is why oftentimes a movie based on a book will not be as good as the book. This is the third attempt at making this movie based on the book of the same name. I think this is a pretty good movie, precisely because I haven't read the book and put my own imagination to work. It has some cool action parts, and some interesting vampire-like creatures (even though they don't refer to them as vampires). Now if I go back and read the book I'll have Will Smith stuck in my head as the main character, eh well not that bad of a vision huh. Good movie, my recommendation: go see it, put a few more bucks into their pockets (ok sorry about that, movies are kinda expensive these days) it really is a movie to see. Army Gen David H. Petraeus cited significant security progress during a roundtable with reporters at the Multinational Task Force headquarters at Camp Victory. Following the roundtable discussion, the general spent an hour with Monthly Movie Reviews provided by LCpl Susan visiting Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates. Whitfield

Weekly attacks in recent weeks are roughly 60 percent of the levels they were in June, Petraeus said. High-profile attacks are down 60 percent from their high in March, and attacks overall have dropped during the last seven weeks to levels TWS Fallen Marine Project not seen here consistently since spring 2005.

As a result, fatalities are down, too. Civilian deaths have fallen dramatically to rates not seen since late 2005. And during a year Petraeus acknowledged has witnessed the most U.S. combat losses since operations first began in Iraq, the figure for November was its lowest in 20 months.

But Petraeus told reporters it's far too early to talk about turning a corner or seeing light at the end of the tunnel. Nobody in uniform is doing victory dances in the end zone, he said. There is much hard work still to be done and that there are numerous difficulties, enemies and issues that still must be addressed. TWS is a place to honor the service history of all Marines who served including those who fell in The challenge, he said, is to continue bringing down violence and building Iraqi combat. So that they will not be forgotten, we have security forces to confront it themselves while promoting similar advances on created a special facility where any TWS Member other fronts. can post a Remembrance Profile for a Fallen Marine they knew or would like to honor, and this can be Petraeus credited the formula thats brought about security progress: More accessed via the "Remember a Marine" link on the coalition and Iraqi forces -- conventional, special operations and counterterrorism LH Home page. -- are in the fight. They're infusing intelligence to target terrorists, and as they clear al Qaeda strongholds, they're pursuing terrorists who flee to other areas. We have also developed an important feature which will enable TWS Members to adopt the Profile of a As a result of our combined efforts, we have taken away a number of enemy Fallen Marine already posted on the site. TWS has sanctuaries, killed or captured numerous enemy leaders and rank-and-file already researched and compiled comprehensive members and disrupted enemy networks inside Iraq, Petraeus said. information on all 14,387 Marines who fell during the Vietnam War, 1965-1975, and these are now Meanwhile, the Iraqi people who have tired of violence are becoming partners in installed as Fallen Profiles accessible via the LH the fight. Petraeus cited Sunni Arabs widespread rejection of al Qaeda and Home Page link. As no one is assigned to maintain extremist ideologies. As a result of this development, we have increasingly these Profiles, we invite TWS Members to adopt one received important support and information from citizens in areas that used to be or more Fallen Profiles as custodian and researching al Qaeda sanctuaries and bases, he said. and adding any additional information when available. 4,700 Vietnam Fallen Profiles have already Local citizens are committing personally to security in their areas, as well. been adopted by TWS Members and there are just They're volunteering for the police, army or local citizens groups that are keeping over 9,600 remaining. once-violent neighborhood clear of al Qaeda. They're providing tips about terrorist activities and weapons. Petraeus credited their efforts for nearly doubling the To adopt the Profile of a Fallen Marine from the number of weapons caches uncovered.

http://marines.togetherweserved.com/usmc/newsletter/36/newsletter.html Page 9 of 13 December 2007 Newsletter 12/27/07 8:32 AM

Vietnam War, please click on the Adopt a Fallen Marine Profile link on the left hand Home Page after We believe the cumulative effect of these finds has gradually degraded our you log in or click here enemy's ability to conduct attacks, Petraeus said, emphasizing that the capability certainly still remains.

Global Incident Map Petraeus also cited more aggressive action by Iraq's neighbors, including Syria, to crack down on the flow of foreign fighters across their borders into Iraq. He If you want to know what is going on in the world of expressed hope that Iran will live up to the promises its seniors leaders made to terrorism, threats, their Iraqi counterparts to stop training, funding, arming and directing groups explosions, airline incidents, etc., keep this web that threaten Iraq's security. page. It's not just about terrorism - it's about what is happening every Another promising development is radical cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's declared day, every minute some ceasefire this summer to rid his Mahdi Army militia of criminals and assassins. place in the world that could affect all of us in some 'We applaud al-Sadr's action, even as all of us in Iraq, including those in his way. It updates units, recognize that some elements connected with the militia continue to carry every 30 seconds, constantly. You just click on any out criminal actions and thus must be dealt with by Iraqi and coalition forces,' map icon for full info Petraeus said. at any time. Global Incident Map He said these recent positive trends and factors that have produced them are changing the context in many parts of Iraq.

Complimentary Upgrade to Those Serving But the general conceded that the fight is far from over. "We have to be careful in OIF/OEF not to get feeling too successful," he said, noting the need for a continued amount of very tough work. TWS proudly provides a FREE 12 month Premium Membership to any deployed service member. You just keep your head down and keep moving,he said, conceding that while officials push for more progress, there will be setbacks along the way.

Success in Iraq is not akin to flipping on a light switch, he said. It emerges slowly and fitfully with reverses as well as advances.

As troops 'soldier through' those successes and strive to build on the momentum, Petraeus expressed hope that Iraqi leaders will take advantage of the security gains that have been purchased through the sacrifice of Iraqi and coalition forces.

Christmas Greetings and Gifts

LetsSayThanks.com gives you the opportunity to send a FREE pre-printed postcard greeting card to military personnel overseas to say Thank You for their service. What better time than Christmas to send some cheer? Click on the Just let us know who you are, on the honor system Banner above. and we'll upgrade your profile. email TWS Admin

Photo submitted by PFC Slaven Tomasi Gift Idea between TWS Members TWS is continuing the option for any Full Member to make a gift of Full From our Marine Humor Board Membership to another TWS Member by simply clicking on the "Upgrade to Full Membership" button on the Member's Profile Page! It's not what you eat During the holidays, we all tend to worry about gaining weight. Here's some interesting information. Website of Interest; Cpl Jason Dunham (MOH) Memorial Page For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know A noteworthy website of interest this month is the the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies. Cpl Jason Dunham Memorial page. This site pays tribute to a true Marine Warrior, one of the Few. 1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer Cpl Dunham gave his life in the performance of his heart attacks than Americans. duties while protecting his fellow Marines. For his 2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer gallantry, he was awarded the Medal of Honor. heart attacks than Americans. CORPORAL JASON L. DUNHAM UNITED STATES http://marines.togetherweserved.com/usmc/newsletter/36/newsletter.html Page 10 of 13 December 2007 Newsletter 12/27/07 8:32 AM

heart attacks than Americans. 3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer CORPORAL JASON L. DUNHAM UNITED STATES fewer heart attacks than Americans. MARINE CORPS 4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer for service as set forth in the following heart attacks than Americans. 5. The Germans drink a lot of beers and eat lots of CITATION: sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond than Americans. the call of duty while serving as a Rifle Squad Leader, 4th Platoon, Company K, Third CONCLUSION: Eat and drink what you like. Battalion, Seventh Marines (Reinforced), Regimental Combat Team 7, First Marine Speaking English is apparently what kills you. Division (Reinforced), on 14 April 2004. Corporal Dunham's squad was conducting a reconnaissance mission in the town of Karabilah, Iraq, when they heard rocket- propelled grenade and small arms fire erupt approximately two kilometers to the Submitted by: SSgt Raymond Jones west. Corporal Dunham led his Combined Anti-Armor Team towards the engagement to Help TWS Grow! provide fire support to their Battalion Commander's convoy, which had been ambushed as it was traveling to Camp Husaybah. As Corporal Dunham and his For every five Marines who join TWS from your Marines advanced, they quickly began to receive enemy fire. Corporal Dunham invitation, you'll be rewarded with 6 months FREE ordered his squad to dismount their vehicles and led one of his fire teams on foot Full Membership allowing you special access to all several blocks south of the ambushed convoy. Discovering seven Iraqi vehicles in the premium areas of the TWS website! a column attempting to depart, Corporal Dunham and his team stopped the vehicles to search them for weapons. As they approached the vehicles, an Your support will also be recognized by a special insurgent leaped out and attacked Corporal Dunham. Corporal Dunham wrestled "Recruiting Ribbon" placed on your LH Profile Page - the insurgent to the ground and in the ensuing struggle saw the insurgent release - and a bronze star for every five new members you a grenade. Corporal Dunham immediately alerted his fellow Marines to the threat. invite! Aware of the imminent danger and without hesitation, Corporal Dunham covered the grenade with his helmet and body, bearing the brunt of the explosion and By inviting other Marines to join this site you not only shielding his Marines from the blast. In an ultimate and selfless act of bravery in greatly increase the chances for Members to find which he was mortally wounded, he saved the lives of at least two fellow Marines. others with whom they served, but the site becomes By his undaunted courage, intrepid fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to even more enjoyable through the increased duty, Corporal Dunham gallantly gave his life for his country, thereby reflecting interaction between Marines from all eras. great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. Inviting other Marines to join couldn't be simpler, just click the Invite tab at the top of the page and fill out Clink here for more information on Cpl. Jason L. Dunham and the Medal of Honor the form, TWS will send the invite for you. TWS Invite Cards - Free for the asking Pre-printed TWS invitation cards are always available and they're free to any member. These cards are a great ice-breaker to start conversations with other Keep your contact info current Marines and they're the perfect tool to help Spread The Word about TWS.

There are two ways in which Marines you served How do you use the cards? Here's how one TWS Member makes use of them: with can contact you via the TWS website: the first is via your "public" e-mail address displayed in your "Thanks for the Cards. Went out to the VA for normal visits and starting asking Personal Details on your Profile Page; and the other around,"who's a Marine in here?" I get some funny looks, but hey, I blow them is by leaving a message in your Message Center off. Then before I leave, I check the parking lot and anybody with USMC on their Inbox. The latter triggers an advisory e-mail, sent to vehicle in any fashion gets a card on his/her window. Have NOT placed my name your "private" e-mail address to inform you that you on any of them, of which I should, but it is a haven out there. have received a message and who it's from. Your "private" e-mail address, which is the one that TWS In NM vets that have been wounded can apply for Purple heart plates which are uses, is contained in your Account Details at the top very noticeable. Still others can apply for disabled vet plates which are free for of your Profile Page which you can modify at any life. The DAV plates usually indicate they got run over by a truck in the sand time. TWS Members' "private" and "public" e-mail where they were catching some Z's or in a jet back wash. NO purple hearts addresses are usually the same. So, please regularly though. In any event, I place the cards where they can see them. So if you get a log-in and update any changes to your e-mail surge of people coming on the list from Albuquerque, it probably was from those addresses both in the Account Detail and Personal cards. They are attractive in that they are different. When I give one to a Marine Detail sections of your Profile. who is in a crowd of 12-15 other vets and one guy holds his hand up, I say, this is for you Marine. He smiles and gets a Semper Fi from me and I am gone, BUT PS: If you use spam blocker software, please add not before I see other jealous vets from God only knows where wondering what news @marines.togetherweserved.com to your the hell I just gave him!!! I will be asking for more soon. Carry on Marine! allowed list! Bob Bruno (Airburst)" Cpl Bob Bruno 2008 TWS Calendar As reminder, you get 6 months of Premium access added to your profile for every 5 Marines you invite that build a profile.

http://marines.togetherweserved.com/usmc/newsletter/36/newsletter.html Page 11 of 13 December 2007 Newsletter 12/27/07 8:32 AM

If you'd like to receive a batch of these cards, please send an email to [email protected] and tell us how many you'd like to receive and where to send them.

TWS Member LCpl Jay Trina put this TWS Holiday Trade Banner Links with TWS Calendar together in .ppt format. We like it and think it's suitable for printing, a way to keep the Marine Corps and TWS a part of your new year. You'll need Microsoft Power Point software to view/print it. If you operate a Marine orientated website and are willing to trade links with TWS 2008 Calendar TWS, click here for information on posting a TWS banner on your site. In return, please contact us at [email protected] with your site's URL, up Hand Salute to LCpl Jay Trina for a job well done! to 100 words describing your website and a 468x60 website banner in jpeg format, if available. We'll be happy to post a reciprocal link in our Preferred Marine Links Section in the category of your choice. TWS Marine Links Pages are Lost Your Password? conveniently organized under different categories including Marine Associations, MCL Detachments, Marine Businesses, Marine Charities and others. If you have forgotten your User ID and Password you can be quickly and easily reminded by clicking on 2007 USO Marine of the Year; Sgt Justin Clough the "Reminder" link contained on the Login page or following this Link. Your Username and Password will be immediately sent to you by e-mail. The unconventional nature of the war in Iraq has demanded much from the Marine Corps Comments/Suggestions NCO's on the ground. During his two tours in Iraq, Marine Corps Sgt. Justin L. Clough Please forward any comments or suggestions that exhibited leadership on numerous occasions, you feel would further improve the website to in combat, communications, air support, and [email protected] or just reply to rescue missions. Clough served a Squad this newsletter. Leader with the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, and his squad undertook more than 100 combat patrols. In between Enjoyed This Newsletter? missions, Clough trained his squad to enhance its communication skills with Please forward this on to any other Marines you aircrews that provide support during combat know.As TWS grows so does its potential to find old operations. He also taught his team how to buddies and new friends as well as creating a conduct evacuations for the wounded, and vibrant and enjoyable Marine Community implemented cutting-edge infantry tactics. representing all eras from WW2 to present day. Clough's dedication to training his men eventually helped save his life. Clough and his team repeatedly came under fire during direct and indirect attacks. They Visit TWS on MySpace also had to constantly dodge improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Clough usually took the lead during assignments, constantly placing himself in the line of fire. On TWS MySpace Profile one occasion in Anbar province, an insurgent sniper wounded Clough. After quickly regaining consciousness, Clough's first concern was to look out for the Marines next to him. Sgt. Nathaniel Clough, Justin's twin brother, tended to his wounds.

Having been trained to deal with the situation at hand, Clough's squad quickly and ably radioed in his injury, requested immediate assistance, and prepared an evacuation by air.

For his actions in combat, Sergeant Clough was honored with the USO (United Service Organizations) Marine of the Year award, as well as the Purple Heart. He http://marines.togetherweserved.com/usmc/newsletter/36/newsletter.html Page 12 of 13 December 2007 Newsletter 12/27/07 8:32 AM

Service Organizations) Marine of the Year award, as well as the Purple Heart. He has also been recommended for the Bronze Star with Combat "V" for valor. Clough's service, which includes a tour of duty in Afghanistan, has been recognized by numerous institutions, including Stonington, CT, where the town celebrated "Justin Lewis Clough Day." Clough threw out the first pitch at a Washington Nationals baseball game this past year.

Clough is quick to praise those around him, especially his brother, whom Clough credits with saving his life. Sgt. Nathaniel Clough later earned the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a Combat "V."

Posted on the TWS Forums by HM1 Rich Hopka

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Sincerely, The TWS Administration Team http://marines.togetherweserved.com

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