Final Test in Boot Camp for Marines

Re “Putting Marines Through a ‘Crucible,’ ” March 7: I am a retired U.S. Air Force pilot of World War II and Korean War vintage. Many have been the times that tears have come to my eyes at the sight of our flag and upon hearing our national anthem. I know the feelings experienced by those Marine recruits who, upon finally earning the right to be called Marines, felt waves of emotion upon seeing the Stars and Stripes.

It is clear that the more we give or sacrifice for our country, the more we love it and appreciate it. During my 24 years of service I sometimes complained when posted in places such as Okinawa and Korea. Now I wouldn’t give those experiences back for any amount of money. I am very proud of those years. Tony Perry’s article brought those emotions to the surface again for me. When I see a full-fledged Marine, I am proud, both for him and for my country. I know he has fully paid his dues and has earned my respect and appreciation.

In peacetime I have noted that the sacrifices being made by our servicemen and women, posted all over the world, are often not fully understood or appreciated. It hurts just as much to be separated from one’s family in peacetime as in wartime. Stories such as this one add to our pride in service to our country and make it all worthwhile.

CLYDE K. VOSS

Rancho Palos Verdes

* Thank you very much for Perry’s Column One on Marine Corps recruit training. That the Marine Corps depends greatly on its enlisted men and that its drill instructors are admired within the Marine Corps are important matters of great satisfaction among Marines and among Americans generally. Word from The Times that these traditions are continuing and are being strengthened is first-page news to me.

MYRON E. HARPOLE

Col., USMCR (ret.), Pasadena

* Of particular interest to me was the reference to Sgt. John Basilone, who earned the Congressional Medal of Honor for his bravery on Guadalcanal. On his return to the States in 1943, I was the Marine public relations officer who had the privilege of scheduling and working with him in New York City, at the start of a nationwide tour.

He was a true Marine, taking orders, even though he obviously did not enjoy all this attention. So, when he returned to Marine headquarters in Arlington, after the nationwide tour, he was ushered into the office of the commandant, who told him, “Sergeant, you have performed your service, and so I’ll let you choose what you’d like to do for the rest of the war. You can teach gunnery to our recruits in North Carolina, or work right here in my office, or go back with the men.” To which, John quickly responded, “Sir, I want to go back with the men!”

That was the kind of Marine he was, and of course the rest is history. A great guy!

BURNS W. LEE

Los Angeles