I've personally never understood the whole fame concept that a person can achieve...to me, the merit of a person is from their actions and deeds vice what they accomplished...maybe my military background has altered my perception.
On that note, every day for over 14 years I put on my uniform proudly, sometimes got to wear my ribbons and medals at official functions, or got into my combat gear and did what Marine's do and have done for well over 200 years....
Now, I have met some incredible and exceptional Marines in my time, here are but a few that stand out:
GySgt Carlos Hathcock - Most likely the best Sniper the USMC produced. I shot competitively as a young Marine, and met GySgt Hathcock on numerous occasions and shot with the man several times. With 93 confirmed kills, the man was a quiet, soft spoken Southern gentleman who was easily embarassed. The last time I saw him was in 97 at the All Services Intramurals at Quantico VA. He died at 57 in 1999. I also know his son who was a GySgt the last time I seen him at Cherry Point, NC.
Colonel Wesley Fox: Medal of Honor Recipient from the famed and doomed 1st Bn / 9th Marine's with the nickname "The Walking Dead". I met him several years ago during a book signing at Camp Lejeune and follow on PME with the man....an intelligent, eloquent, and humble hero.
Iwo Jima Veteran's: In 1995, I got to go to Iwo Jima as part of the 50th Anniversary to help with the set up, seating, whatever as a young LCpl. I got to meet warriors from both sides of that epic struggle...Men I can't even comprehend their courage and felt awed in their presence. Hero's one and all. I still have some sand from Iwo Jima which is one of my prized possessions...when I die eventually and am cremated, I want it added to my ashes....it's a part of what I am and our legacy as Marine's...it can never be forgotten.
Lastly: Every Marine I ever met, served with, or have talked to along with my sister-services...you are my friends, my hero's, my inspiration. I'm still humbled daily by them...still can't see morning colors without getting misty eyed, and cry often when I hear of a KIA from Iraq and Afghanistan for another parents child.
These people to me epitomize "fame" and greatness....by the people they are and the actions and deeds they were responsible for...that is their legacy for all to aspire to...
, but I've met some NHRA Drag Racing greats (Don "The Snake" Prudhomme, John Force, Joe Amato, Ed Hill, Kenny Bernstein, etc.). Also, met some Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders (hubba hubba) and Henry Rollins while I was deployed to the desert.:newsmile082:
