When Dan was in the San Diego Naval Medical Center, having just been told his Marine career was over and most likely his life, and that his right leg needed to be amputated, he was understandably in the dumps. His mom and I were by his bedside trying to hide our own disappointment and grief when Dans company commander came to visit. He was a young captain and small stature, and he talked pleasantly with the three of us for a while, but he couldnt break through Dans despondency. Eventually, he moved to Dans left and put his face close to Dans and Ill never forget his words. He said, Marine, you have been given a rotten assignment and a terrible task to perform and overcome. But, you dont ever forget that you are a Marine and you will fight this battle the way all Marines fight; you will go straight up the hill and you will take the fight to the enemy. You will never quit. You will never stop. You will prevail or you will die trying, thats what Marines do. But, one thing you will understand right now and never forget, is that Marines never feel sorry for themselves. Drop the attitude and pick up your spirit. Dont ever make me regret having you in my command and in my Corps. Dan perked up immediately and while prone in the bed, he came to attention and said what all Marines say to a command, Aye, aye, Sir. Ive never been more proud of him and the Marine Corps than I was at that moment.
Posted on: Wed, 16 Apr 2014 01:35:58 +0000
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