Ditto! Thank you for your service, Joe.
Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails, make me aware of Thy presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty in purpose and deed and helping me to live so that I can face my fellow Marines, my loved ones, and Thee without shame or fear. Protect my family.
Give me the will to do the work of a Marine and to accept my share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm. Grant me the courage to be proficient in my daily performance. Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors and to the duties my Country and the Marine Corps have entrusted to me. Help me to wear my uniform with dignity, and let it remind me daily of the traditions which I must uphold.
If I am inclined to doubt, steady my faith; if I am tempted, make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again.
Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom by which I may understand the answer to my prayer. Amen.
He shot this one of me 50 years after I entered the Corps, standing in front of the Iwo Jima Monument on the Parade Deck.
You can appreciate the pride I have in participating in its Dedication Ceremony in 1952, during The Korean Conflict - with 8 full companies, WM's were "A" Company, with out front of the whole shebang our Company Commander -- and with me as the Guidon Bearer, carrying the American Flag...
Memories don't get much better than that, short of Family ones --
