I was born and raised in South Williamsport and now live in Charleston, SC. I have to commend the recent news publications honoring the U.S. Marine Corps. I too am a USMC Veteran and couldn't think of anything that I am more proud of...other than my beautiful wife of course! Becoming a Marine is one of those moments that I will never forget. To carry on the traditions of Honor, Courage, and Committment on a daily basis is one of the greatest privileges we Marines have. It's great to see that others like me feel the same way. We are a unique breed of citizens who decided to write the ultimate check payable to our government in the amount of our lives.
One can always spot a Marine. He wears his tattoos with pride, he has countless stickers on his car, truck, motorcycle and even bicycle. He's the one that stands at attention during the playing of the national anthem and always stops to salute the American Flag during July 4th or the beloved USMC birthday on Nov. 10th of each year. He speaks of his time in the Corps with a sparkle in his eye and will always have the thousand yard stare regardless of combat experience or not...he's just remembering his fellow Marines. And the beauty of this all is that it's not just a "he," but also a "she." Some of the best Marines I served with were very dedicated females.
Marines have a bond that rivals that of family and we usually don't even know each other's first names. Semper Fidelis is not just a motto. It's the creed that we live by each waking minute. Marines are always Marines whether active, reserve, or retired. Even "on Heaven's scene, you'll find the streets are guarded by United States Marines." Semper Fi to all my Lycoming County Marines from a motivated devildog in Charleston, SC.
Justin M. Follmer
Johns Island
Submitted by Virtual Newsroom
