Belated Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! from Department Staff

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1 Dec 17-Jan 18 Belated Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! from Department Staff Commandant Sr Vice Commandant Jr. Vice Commandant Judge Advocate Jr Past Commandant Adjutant Paymaster Chaplain Sgt-at-Arms Worthy Pack Leader Jim Stone (864) Jerry Holt (973) Larry Frelin (803) Butch Raynes (843) John Tharp (843) Jim Hill (803) Charles Hardy (803) Art Blenk (843) Wayne Smith (864) Jim Stone (864) Worthy Past Pack Leader Jim Smith (864) Editor & Publisher Deborah Stone (864) Please use address to submit articles.

2 P a g e 2 Department Commandant Jim Stone jimsn4@yahoo.com There is a lot going on with the Department now. We have to compile a lot of information for the upcoming Mid-Winter Conference and we need your help! I have, again, sent out s requesting information from your Commandants needed by the Department for the National Officers. Again, I get a response from the same ten to twelve Commandants. You, as members of your Detachments, need to ask your Commandant if he or she is responding to these questions and s. If they are not, perhaps you should consider this when your elections come around. It is the Commandant s duty to give information to the Department and National about your Detachment s successes and work so that you can be recognized for the job you do. If he/she is not proud enough to give this information, perhaps he or she should learn their job and maybe not serve as your Commandant. They do not represent you as you deserve. We are entering the convention season. In March, we have the Mid-Winter in Fredericksburg, VA and then, the Southeastern is in Pigeon Forge, TN. In June, we have the Department Convention in Beaufort (Parris Island), SC. Then, last but not least, the National Convention in Buffalo, NY. I hope that many of you will attend these conventions. They are fun, exciting, educational, and an opportunity to visit places you may not consider for another reason. Make your reservations now to attend and let s have some fun! You never know if you might appear on the front cover of Semper Fi. We are going to have a training session for our officers this year (2018). It will be held a little later this year in hopes we have better weather than last year. We still have not heard from anyone what you wish to have for training. We will put together a program and make it interactive so you will have the opportunity to ask the questions you have. I really hope it will be well attended and I promise it will be beneficial to you. Do not forget that our next Quarterly will be held on January 20th at the American Legion in Columbia. Please make plans now to attend. Lunch will be served and the Growl will be held right after lunch. Semper Fi Jim

3 P a g e 3 Senior Vice Commandant Jerry Holt jerryholt813@gmail.com Semper Fi, Jerry I finally got around to reading the Fall issue of the Semper Fi magazine this week, and it reinforced the realization that there is a disconnect between Marine Corps League National Headquarters and the Detachments. At the National level, there is continuing concern over the decline in membership and the cash flow problem - presumably caused by the transition in the membership renewal dates this year. Delinquents are at an all-time high, and it's not clear as to whether this is due to our poor record-keeping system, or whether we are, in fact, continuing to lose members. In discussions I've had with several of our Detachments, there doesn't seem to be much of a change in membership levels - we have some members stop showing up, but we have others who join or start to become more active. So the problem doesn't seem to be as acute at the Detachment level as it is at National. National has set an objective of a 50/50 membership - with 50% of the members of being over 50 years old, and 50% under 50. That message makes an old coot like me feel unwanted. We can easily get to that 50% objective by booting out us older ones so that we decline from 85% of the membership to just 50%. I don't really believe that's the objective, but we need to be a little more clear in defining and communicating our goals and in providing some new ideas on how we're going to accomplish them. We certainly need new, and younger members, but let's also not neglect the older ones. [End of soapbox speech]. At least some of the National Officers attribute most of the League's communications problem to the Departments. If that's the case, we need your honest and direct feedback on where we are dropping the ball. Our addresses and phone numbers are on the cover of this newsletter. Let us know what we need to be doing differently. Ending on a more positive note, let's look at some of the good things we've accomplished this year. Our Department contributed $7,000 to League members who were victims of the recent hurricanes; our MODD South Carolina Pack has contributed thousands to the Shriner's Childrens Hospital; and at the National Convention, the MODD Kennel gave $50,000 to the Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas. We are members of the League not only for the camaraderie and continued association with the Corps and other Marines, but also because we make a difference within our Communities. Toys for Tots activity is ramping up now, and again, we'll have the opportunity to improve the season for thousands of children throughout the State. Let's express our gratitude and salute ourselves and those in our League who not only make the League better, but also make a positive difference for the veterans and others throughout the State.

4 P a g e 4 Senior Vice Commandant Jerry Holt jerryholt813@gmail.com All members of the Department of South Carolina have been awarded a Department Level Meritorious Unit Commendation. The award was approved and presented by George LaMont, Commandant for the Department of Florida. The citation reads, in part.. In recognition and appreciation of your outstanding and generous donation to the Department of Florida s Disaster Relief Fund. Your donation went to Marine Corps League Members who were the victims of Hurricane Irma in the Florida Keys. Your selfless act of support has directly enhanced those members quality of life by enabling them to know that someone cares for them and they are not alone or forgotten. The caring and compassion shown by your unit for our brothers and sisters in the Marine Corps League upholds the highest standards and best interests of the United States of America, the United States Marine Corps, the Marine Corps League and the Department of Florida. As of December 1, 2017, all Department of South Carolina members in good standing (meaning their dues have been paid) are authorized to wear the Department Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon. We belong to the League for many reasons. Among those reasons is the fact that we can count on other Marines to go to extraordinary lengths to help when they are able. This past year, the Department was able to contribute relief funds not only to Florida, but also to other southern states that were affected by hurricanes and floods. Many of our Detachments made similar contribution to causes in their areas in order to assist their communities or their neighbors. We are able to provide that assistance because of the efforts of our members in volunteering and in fundraising efforts. Thanks to all of you for your participation and your contributions to the League. Speaking of fundraising. We are about to announce the plan to raise funds for both the Detachments and the Department for this year. We ll be announcing the details at our upcoming Quarterly Department Meeting on January 20, but basically the plan goes like this: We ll be sponsoring a drawing for two firearms. The first prize winner will receive their choice of either of the two firearms, and the second prize winner will receive the other pistol. Each Detachment will receive a number of raffle tickets proportionate to their number of members. The tickets will sell for $5 each, or 5 tickets for $20. The Detachment will keep $2 for each ticket sold, and the remainder will go to the Department, and the Department will cover the cost of the prizes. The drawings will be held at the Department Convention but the winners need not be present at the drawing. As mentioned above, we know that all our organizations need funds to operate and to be in a position to help others. This raffle plan is designed to share the profits from the activity. Like so many other programs, it can only be successful for all of us with your support. Semper Fi, Jerry

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6 P a g e 6 Junior Vice Commandant Larry Frelin sclarryguy@aol.com I hope that everyone in the Department of SC got a chance to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of our beloved Marine Corps. It is always a special time of year to mix with fellow Marines and FMF Corpsman and to enjoy the festivities of our birthday and hopefully a Birthday Ball with all of its pomp and circumstance. We were fortunate to have as our Guest of Honor Lt. General Fred McCorkle also known to many the Assassin. The General really does a fine job of spinning facts along with good ole traditional yarns from his past. He certainly makes one proud to have served and proud to be an American. We got the chance to invite Marines that are not yet a part of our League, but we are working on them and some seem to be serious. We will keep working them until we win them over. Also, we are well into this year s Toys for Tots campaign which provides us with an opportunity to meet and great the public and possibly some kindred spirits (Marines or FMF Corpsman) who with a smile and a little arm twisting might consider joining the League. Remember, membership is everyone s responsibility so get out there and press the flesh with a smile on your face. I hope that all of the Department of SC members have a Safe and Happy Christmas Season and New Year. Looking forward to catching up with some of you at our next Department Meeting in January Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!!!!! Semper Fi, Larry

7 Junior Vice Commandant P a g e 7 Larry Frelin sclarryguy@aol.com First, I hope that everyone had a wonderful and safe Holiday season. I m sure that 2018 will bring many opportunities in improving membership and programs if we enthusiastically work the issue of obtaining new members. The future of the Marine Corps League depends on it! There are many things you as a Veteran s organization can do in order to attract new members to your Detachment. People join organizations for many reasons: they want to get involved, meet people, make new friends, explore interests, develop leadership skills and have fun. Groups need new members because they bring new ideas and talents, in addition to replacing old members. Here, you ll find eighteen (18) viable approaches that you could use in order to help grow your Detachment member/and associate member base! 1. Bring a guest to meetings 2. Post a FB event for all chapter meetings 3. Hang posters in business windows and church/club bulletin boards 4. Make awesome MCL t-shirts which lays out recruiting 5. Put together membership information packets 6. Print Detachment business cards with meeting location and times 7. Use group to promote your Detachment 8. Have a reward program for those who bring in new members 9. Use word of mouth 10. Publicize Detachment s successes, events, in local newspapers 11. Design an information brochure 12. Give every member a Detachment decal or bumper stickers for their car 13. Have a large poster that lists all the members who have sponsored a new member in the past year 14. Display a thermometer showing progress towards chapter goal 15. Develop a welcome letter from the commandant for all new members 16. Contact all members who have not come to meetings lately 17. Recognize new members in newsletters 18. Invite member s partners to meetings and social events Semper Fi, Larry Frelin

8 P a g e 8 Chaplain s Corner Art Blenk ablenk@sc.rr.com Marines, Associate Marines,FMF Corpsmen and Family members: At the start of this message, please join me to recall the tragedies that caused the loss of lives for active duty members of the nation s military in training exercises and covert operations during the past year. As we commend those souls to heaven, let us pray for their families in this, their hour of need. The following may be a history lesson of interest related to the origin of a popular Christmas treat that we Marines all enjoyed going back to our early childhood - Christmas Candy Canes. One popular story credits American confectioners with inventing the candy cane, however some unproven historical evidence conflicts with these claims. The Christmas Candy Cane may have originated in Germany about 350 years ago. A story says that a choirmaster, in 1670, was worried about the children sitting quietly all through the long Christmas nativity service. So he gave them something to eat to keep them quiet. As he wanted to remind them of Christmas, he made them into a J shape like a shepherd s crook, to remind them of the shepherds that visited the baby Jesus at the first Christmas. However, the earliest records of candy canes comes from over 250 years later, so the story may be attributed to folklore. The above story sounds nice, but may be simply folklore. However, it may be true that an American was the first to introduce the candy cane with extensive Christian meaning. Though the candy cane not designed with intentional symbolism (beyond its shape), it has proven to be a useful teaching tool. It seems appropriate to use it as such, particularly if its original form was meant to teach children about Christ, the Good Shepherd. The most common symbolism is as follows: The hard candy reminds us that Jesus is our rock-psalm 61:2 The cane shape reminds us of a shepherd s staff and the shepherds that came to worship Jesus. It also reminds us of how Jesus came into the world to be a shepherd oh his people- Luke 2:8-15 and John 10:11 The upside-down candy cane forms the letter J and reminds us that the name of Jesus which means God saves - Matthew 1:21 The peppermint flavor reminds us of the gift of spices from the Wise Men. Matthew 2:11 The white candy reminds us of purity and holiness. It recalls the virgin birth of Christ, the sinless life of Christ and the holy life that Jesus wants his people to live. Matthew 1:23 and 1 Peter 1:15 The color red reminds us that Jesus became a real flesh and blood man and spilled his blood to save his people.-

9 P a g e 9 Hebrews 2:14 The stripes remind us of the lashes Jesus received when he suffered for us and ultimately bore our sins that we might be healed.- 1 Peter 2:24-25 From its plain early beginnings to its familiar shape and color today, the Christmas candy cane is a worldwide Christian symbol of Christmas and a reminder of the meaning of the holiday. FALLEN MARINE REPORT William E. Wells (MAL) and Past Commandant of Detachment #1105, Owens/Kennemore. Charles Simkins James L. Hammons Detachment # 939 December 3, 2017 Allen W. Sauls Julian D. Dusenbury Detachment # 410 November 29, 2017 Harold W. Atkins Palmetto Detachment # 829 December 29, 2017 James R. Hucks Harold E. Speedy Wilson Detachment #1141 December 31, 2017 IN MEMORIAN PRAYER Let us also remember those of our Brother and Sister Department of South Carolina members who have been reported on the Fallen Marines report for the 12 months of year Bob Earl Munroe, Jr. 16 January 2017 Elaine M. Wells 15 February 2017 Richard Kim Dewey 9 December 2016 Joseph E. Smith, Jr. 8 March 2017 Morris Washington, Jr. 13 March 2017 Grady G. Thompson 18 March 2017 John Glenn Thrasher 16 March 2017 Carl Edward Langely 7 May 2017 Freddie L. Wilson, Sr. 13 December 2017 Richard N. Bozzone 8 May 2017 Edward J. Moore, Jr. 20 May 2017 David F. Owens, Jr. 24 May 2017 Charles V. Gluck 30 June 2017 Cameron S. Ratkovic 13 February 2014 E. Lee Griggs 5 August 2017 Edward Talbot 4 August 2017 Joseph A. Horne, Jr. 21 September 2017 Herbert Peoples 31 October 2017 The above Department members are sorely missed and we shall remember them in our hearts. Rest in peace Marines, there is a place for you in heaven for you have well served your time on earth! Department of South Carolina Marine Corps League members please keep our sick and injured members and families in your prayers. Marines, FMF Corpsmen, Associate Members, and Families may this Christmas end the present year on a cheerful note and make way for a fresh and bright New Year. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. God Bless America, God Bless the United States Marine Corps Art Blenk, Chaplain

10 P a g e 10 Adjutant Jim Hill usmc1969@gmail.com Detachments are starting to have elections and installations. Please remember a Past Dept. or Detachment Commandant, or an elected or appointed State Officer can do an installation. Also the Installation Report and the Officer Report need to be properly filled out with signatures and all the contact information and forwarded to the Adjutant. The forms are online and need to be typed. Paymaster Charles Hardy cshwoodman@yahoo.com Commandants & Paymasters- There are still Detachments that have not filed their 990N and have not done their Detachment s Life Member audit. Please submit these asap!

11 P a g e 11 MODD Worthy Pack Leader Jim Stone jimsn4@yahoo.com Woof, Woof all you magnificent Dawgs!!! DEVIL DOG S CREED I am an American, I was born in France. I hold the title of United States Marine, and understand the commitment of holding the title, Devil Dog. It is a tradition born at Belleau Wood in the year 1918, of a force in readiness and the First to Fight. As a Devil Dog, I ask no quarter and give no quarter. I will do everything in my power to uphold the objectives of the Military Order of Devil Dogs and to carry out my duties to a swift and satisfactory completion. Another year has past and we have much to be thankful for and proud of! Pound Keepers and Dog Robbers, please make sure that you are filling out reports correctly and that all passport fees are sent to the Kennel on time, every time. I have heard that there are a few challenges out there from one pound to another pound to get fines up and/or donations up so that we can make a great gift to the Children s Hospital this year. I heard that PDD Larry Frelin has been barking that they will have more bones to donate than any other pound. Pound 340 has stated that he has been drinking too much eggnog from his water bowl. They say he cannot come close to them. I do hope you all will pay fines cheerfully or donate much so that we will be able to donate at least $7500 Big Bones to the children this year. All you Pound Keepers should remind your dogs that the bones go to the children. It is all about the children! We need to so some serious recruiting for our Pounds. Every Dog can recruit. It is as easy as asking a worthy, active Detachment member to join us. This is the ONLY way they can join. Get involved! Ask those deserving Detachment members to join the fun and honor society of the Marine Corps League. Remember that our next Pack Growl will be held on January 20 at the American Legion in Columbia after the Quarterly and lunch. Semper Fi and Woof,Woof! Jim Worthy Pack Leader

12 Page 12 Dec 17-Jan 18 Young Marines James Roberts The Upstate Young Marines have received two awards on December 2nd of 2017: the Marine Corps League Commendation Award with Bronze Star and the Young Marine Unit Commendation Award with Silver Palm. These awards were a result of superior achievement in representing the Young Marines Program through community involvement in many events, charities, and schools, as well as for developing excellent leaders within the Unit. Also recognized was the Upstate Young Marines' dedication and devotion to the Veteran and Civic organizations throughout Greenville County, supporting local Veterans' groups as well as our men and women oversees in service to and defense of our great nation. The Unit was also recognized for completing all required training, maintaining a high level in recruitment and retention, and attending Battalion, Regimental, Division, and National events and functions. In keeping with the highest goals, ideals, and principles of the Young Marines Program, this Unit was also chosen as the Unit of the Year out of 40 Units in the 3rd Division in August of Retirement Ceremony On December 2nd of 2017, Upstate Young Marines retired 2 Registered Adults Volunteers after their 10 years of dedicated volunteer service as Adjutant, Ms. Tina Scott, and Paymaster, Ms. Denise Jeter. The difference that they made in our Unit and the lives of our Young Marines will not be forgotten. They have trained two new Registered Adults to take on their responsibilities and continue to be helpful in answering any of their questions. They were presented with letters of appreciation from the 18th SgtMaj of the Marine Corps, letters of appreciation from our Unit, Young Marine volunteer medallions, and many cards and gifts from the Young Marine families whose hearts they have touched by how much of themselves they have given to us through their outstanding performance. Department of South Carolina Dec 17-Jan 18

13 Around the state Detachment RoLL Call P a g e 13 Julian dusenbury det 410 The Marine Corps League, Julian D. Dusenbury Detachment #410 celebrated the Marine Corps 242nd birthday. This was also a landmark birthday ball as this was the detachments 40th Anniversary since they were chartered on October13,1977. We are also the oldest detachment in the Department of South Carolina. This 40th Birthday Ball was held at the Elks Lodge All in attendance had a great dinner with music from the 1930s to the present playing followed by a program. Commandant Don Jones opened the rest of the evening by all in attendance paying respects to our flag and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a boisterous rendition of The Marine Hymn. Jim Williams read the Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Neller"s Birthday Message. Randy Godbold, Florence County Veterans Service Officer, A little bit of history. The reading of the Birthday message has been a tradition since the Marine Corps 13th Commandant John A. Lejuene's implementation in After Marine historian Maj. Edwin North McClellen sent a memorandum to Commandant Lejuene to use their original birthdate when they were first formed in 1775 at Tun's Tavern instead of the date the Marines were reformed July 11. The first formal birthday celebrations was formalized in The Marine Corps Birthday Ball became "more standardized by Commandant Lemuel C. Shepherd, Jr. in 1952, outlining the cake cutting ceremony, which would enter the Marine Drill Manual in By tradition, the first slice of cake is given to the oldest Marine present, who in turn hands it off to the youngest Marine present, symbolizing the old and experienced Marines passing their knowledge to the new generation of Marine." Tonight we also gave to members who have helped with functions through out the year the Distinguished Service Awards. These were handed out by Henry King. Those receiving Distinguished Service Awards were given to Jim Williams, Leslie Gregg, Eugene Piersol, Thomas Robinson, Judy Jones, Don Jones Steve Mayhew, Henry King, William Keating, Charlene Keating. Also, Detachment Marine of the Year Award was awarded to Don Jones who has been a Commandant of the detachment for 10 years. We had an Associate of the Year Award this year and it was presented to Judy Jones who works very hard for the detachment and enjoys what she does. Thank you Certificates were given to Randy Godbold and the Elks Lodge It was a Very Happy 242nd Birthday Ball. This year s Birthday cake was cut by FMF Corpsman Eugene Piersol and Marine Stanley Wells. Again Happy Birthday Marines. Detachment #410 hopes everyone had a great Christmas. The detachment is getting ready for nominations of Officers. We are looking forward to a successful year. Toys for Tots had some Clemson Footballs they Raffled off which Coach Dabo Swinney signed footballs to benefit the program. They we're able to help 1,100 families this year. Detachment #410 wants to wish everyone one a blessed, healthy and successful New Year.

14 Dec 17-Jan 18 Page 14 Low country Det 803 (L) The Low Country Detachment decided to get a float for the Charleston Veteran s Day parade instead of walking the parade route. ( Below) Trish Gallagher (Jr. Vice) ran the Travis Manion Foundation 9/11 1st Responder Hero s 5K Run. She placed second in fund raising for this Foundation with a total of $ (L) Birthday cake cutting Retired Colonel Robert Mastrion cut the cake and presented to the oldest Marine Bill Oliver (88 years old) who passed the cake to the youngest Marine Trish Gallaher (44 years old). Detachment members donated 60 toys to the Toys for Tots campaign. 75,071 toys were distributed to children in the Tri-County area. We hope everyone had a great Christmas and wish everyone a great Commandant John Tharp (left) with Ms. Santa and two of the Marine Corps I & I from the Medical Logistics Platoon, Detachment 3, Combat Logistics Battalion 451 assisting with Toys for Tots in the Charleston/ Berkeley/Dorchester Counties area. Department of South Carolina Dec 17-Jan 18

15 Dec 17-Jan 18 Pa Low country Det 803 (Above) Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day on December 7th aboard the USS Yorktown. Colonel Robert Mastrion was the guest speaker for the event. Adjutant Bob Dosher (left) and Past Commandant Gary Dobson preparing to toss a wreath at the December 7th Pearl Harbor Day Event. (L) Norm Smith laying wreaths at the Wreaths Across America locally in Carolina Memorial Garden. ( R) Commandant John Tharp (with assistance from Jonathan Morrison (Boy Scout Troop 788) lay a wreath at the Wreaths Across America. The Low Country also had members lay wreaths in the Beaufort National Cemetery. ( R ) Mr. Scott Isaacks (Director of Ralph H. Johnson Medical Center) with Retired Major General James Livingston at the Grand Opening of the new Fisher House for the Ralph H. Johnson. This is currently the 73rd Fisher Department of South Carolina Dec 17-Jan 18

16 P a g e 16 James l. hammonds det 939 Detachment #939 held their Annual Veterans Day Ceremony at Aiken Memorial Park. The event was very well attended and three wonderful speakers from our community joined in. Key Note Speaker was Col. Claude Davis III, with Col. Gus Fitch and SC House Rep. Mr. Bill Taylor joining in. The Ceremony was Narrated by Major Joe Featherston (USMC-R) of Detachment #939 and opening and closing comments provided by Commandant Larry Frelin. The South Aiken NJROTC Cadets provided Color Guard and Barb and Roger Rollins provided the music with the Home Schooled Band. And finally, Master Samuel Allen provided his gifted voice to sing the Star Spangled Banner. Members of Detachment #939 set a wreath at the memorial wall with other members saluting during the presentation. Detachment's #939 and 1132 combined their efforts and put on our Birthday Ball Celebration. Approximately 110 attended and we were honored to have Lt. General Fred McCorkle ("the Assassin") as our Guest of Honor. The General is well known throughout the Southeast and has attended many Balls in the region. Lt. General is a Marine Aviator with thirty two years of service.

17 P a g e 17 James l. hammonds det 939 Detachment #939 lead the Aiken County T4T program with Detachment #1132 joining in to distribute boxes throughout Aiken County. The pictures are of Lane Parker and his elfs from SRS our largest employer in the area. The group picture is some of the elfs that sorted by age, gender and filled the wish sacks. The tall Elf with the Santa Hat on is SC House Representative for Aiken Mr. Bill Taylor and his lovely elf wife. Veterans Day Ceremony in Aiken Veterans Day Ceremony included Detachment members who performed as color guard, Col. Gus Fitch USMC R) in leather flight jacket, Col. Claude Davis III USMC-R) and Guest of Honor, Commandant Larry Frelin and Narrator for the event Major Joe Featherston (USMC-R). Also, in attendance and a guest speaker was SC House Rep. Bill Taylor. Our local Home School Band played the music and the wreath layers were Dick Schreck and Greg Allen. Pound #312 Donates to Veterans Administration Pound Keeper PDD Larry Frelin donates a $1,000 check to the Augusta VA Hospital for Homeless Veterans At Christmas time. Another $1,000 was donated to the VA in Columbia South Carolina.

18 Page 18 Dec 17-Jan 18 Owens-kennemore det 1105 Det Commandant Wade Rhoney spoke to an assembly of student s at DR Hill Middle School on Veterans Day. ((Left) Members also assisted the Greenville Reserve Center by colleting toys. There was also a Toy Drive at the Poinsett Club during Christmas. (Pictures 2& 3). Sr Vice Sandy Thompson and Comm. Wade Rhoney at the Poinsett Club Wade Rhoney, Stu McDonald, Bob Burns and Bob Duke hamming it up at the Poinsett Club. Commandant Rhoney presented MCL pins to new members Carl Kohlhepp and Virginia Hunter Olde English leathernecks det 1123 Veterans Day observances: Members of the Detachment participated in Veterans Day ceremonies at Grandview Gardens in Rock Hill on Nov. 10. Commandant Ed Egan delivered the Veterans Day address at the dedication of SC Highway 5 from Rock Hill through York as "Veterans Memorial Highway" on Nov. 10; still can wear his blues. Member David Guyton spoke at India Hook Elementary School on Nov. 10 for their first ever Veterans Day Program. He also spoke at Harbor Chase Assisted Living in honor of Veterans Day. Members also participated in the Veterans Day Parade in York on Nov. 11. Department of South Carolina Dec 17-Jan 18

19 P a g e 19 Olde English leathernecks det 1123 Death Olde English Leathernecks Det sadly reports the death of Keith Klawes on Nov. 30, Keith succumbed peacefully to the cancer that ravaged him. He was a Life Member of the MCL, Past Commandant, 2016 Marine of the Year, and a PDD with MODD Pound 340, SC Pack. Toys For Tots Toys For Tots is in full swing under the direction of Coordinator Ed Egan with superb volunteers from the Detachment.. Last year we provided 1282 kids with toys that they would not otherwise have had. Birthday Ball The Detachment held its annual Birthday Ball in honor of our Corps on Nov. 4. The 242nd Birthday Ball had an attendance of 130 Marines and Guests. A spectacular job of planning and implementing the Ball was done by 3 Associate Member ladies: Jamie Cooke, Holly Hill, and Sabrina Tanguay. At the Ball, Frank Enriquez was honored as Marine of the Year 2017 and Sabrina Tanguay as Associate of the Year Guest of Honor/Guest Speaker was Dr. Dai C. Phan, DDS. After the fall of the Republic of Vietnam to the invasion by North Vietnamese forces, the young boy who was to become Dr. Phan escaped with his family in 1978, becoming one of the "boat people". Enduring danger and hardship as refugees, Dr. Phan and his family finally arrived in the United States in Here, Dr. Phan continued his journey to becoming a man and an American. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Missouri at Kansas City, and his Master's degree in prosthodontics from Marquette University. Today, Dr. Phan is staff maxillofacial prosthodontist at William Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center, Columbia, S.C. Dr. Phan is an aircraft enthusiast, and a champion of Vietnam veterans, those fellow citizens who sacrificed so much for his native country. His address provided verification to our Vietnam veterans that their efforts and sacrifices were not in vain. Top Left: Commandant Ed Egan introduces Guest of Honor, Dr. Dai C. Phan Top Center: Dr. Phan delivering his address Commandant Egan presents Dr. Phan a woodburned plague depicting the US and Republic of Vietnam flags. Commandant Ed Egan & date, Dr. Dai C. Phan & date

20 P a g e 20 Riverfront marines det 1132 RIVERFRONT MARINES SUPPORT TOYS FOR TOTS In addition to buying toys with the donated monies collected at the Walmart stand ups, Riverfront Marines make their rounds around North Augusta to pick up the collection boxes filled with Toys for Tots. Pictured below from left to right are Lee Byrd and Kevin Joy. NORTH AUGUSTA CHRISTMAS PARADE On December 5, 2017, Riverfront Marines participated in the North Augusta Christmas Parade. Pictured below is our float fully decorated, loaded with smiling children, a huge teddy bear sitting in a white sleigh surrounded with unwrapped toys and a Christmas tree with wrapped presents under it. Pictured above in the middle with Santa hat is Kay McPeake Pictured in the back are Perry and Shelley Jimmerson. Pictured above is John Tolley sitting next to children.

21 P a g e 21 Hutchings-caldwells det 1134 November was a very busy month for the detachment. On November 4 th, the Hutchings-Caldwells Detachment held its 4 th annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball. During the opening ceremony, we honored a Fallen Marine, Grady Gunny Thompson with Ringing of the Ship s Bell. The ceremony ended with the traditional cutting of the Birthday cake. (First Collage) The detachment participated in 2 Veteran Day Parades: Spartanburg on November 9 th and Columbus, NC on November 11 th. Jerry Kiehl and Dale Fox walked in both parades displaying the Detachment s Banner. In addition, Jerry Kiehl and Pamela Bagwell placed flags on some Veteran graves and on the sign of our detachment s namesake, Lcpl. Nolan Hutchings. (Second Collage) As we do every year, we had a Thanksgiving Dinner on November 14 and a Christmas Dinner on December12 for the homeless. On November 16 th we participated in the 7 th Homeless Event held at Barnet Park in Spartanburg. There were approximately 200 to 300 people in attendance. Our detachment provided blankets, clothes and bags with personal care items. The event was from 3:00 to 8:00 pm. Several guest speakers were present. (Third Collage) Also, for the Christmas Dinner we make up Christmas bags to give out to the homeless/needy that attend. The packages include blankets, hats, gloves socks, notepads/pens, snacks, fruit, lots of personal care items from Detachment (Fourth Collage) As a summary of the Detachment s mission, we have provided over 500 meals to the homeless/needy, collected clothes and coats that were distributed locally, in Virginia and Kentucky. Not all, but many were veterans and their families.

22 P a g e 22 Speedy Wilson det 1141 Community Builder: Man helps make Christmas wishes happen for nearly six decades Wednesday, December 6th 2017, 12:10 pm ESTWednesday, December 6th 2017, 1:19 pm EST By Mary King, Sunrise Anchor COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) - For nearly six decades, one Columbia man has had a hand in helping to make children s Christmas wishes come true. As one of Santa s best helpers, Larry is a great elf and he opens up his home, as does his family to having the toys stored there, Fielding Freed, a member of the Marine Corps League in Columbia who says he s known Larry Shrunkwiler for the last two years, said. It turns out Shrunkwiler, 78, has been volunteering with Toys for Tots since the 1960's when he lived in Cleveland. He moved to Columbia in the 1970's and has been a big part of the Toys for Tots effort in the Midlands ever since. Larry is the one of the biggest helps, and the single biggest help that I have, Marine Corps SSgt. Quentin Bryant. Between Larry and the Marine Corps League, they've maintained a list of 375 drop sites over the past 5 or 6 years, and they've always been a great help. While the Toys for Tots effort is led by the Marine Corps Reserve, the Marine Corps League helps supports their efforts. That s how Larry got involved after his days of active duty back in the late 1950';s. You were invited to take used toys home and repair them at home, Shunkwiler said. Bicycles, baby buggies -- that sort of thing -- that's how I got involved way back then. Since then, Larry hasn t slowed down. He s determined to make sure no child goes without which is why Mungo Homes wanted to honor Larry as a Community Builder and help with his efforts. Larry thought WIS was covering a story on the campaign when Mary Mungo interrupted to surprise Larry with a hard hat. It was a big surprise for a man who s been helping to surprise local families with Christmas presents for years. There s an occasional tear on your shoulder from moms and dads that are so grateful, Shunkwiler said. That's the hard part, because I'm a real softy- so that's pretty touching. Larry s efforts are also touching, as they continue to spread the Christmas spirit. Copyright 2017 WIS. All rights reserved. Mary Mungo presented Larry with a hard hat and a $1,000 check for the MCL Toys for Tots Program.

23 Dec 17-Jan 18 Page 23 Yellow footprints det 1154 Yellow Footprints celebrated the 242nd Birthday with luncheon on 4 November. Bells for the Heaven s Unit Diary YFD fallen Marine (L) Del Tingley reading Commandant s Msg Mike Rodriguez reading Gen Lejeune s Msg (M) Commandant John Stump giving cake to youngest and oldest Marine present (R )Mike Rodriguez reading Gen Lejeune s Msg (BR) Miss Dina and Pvt. Gomer at the Veteran s Day Parade on Nov 11th Department of South Carolina Dec 17-Jan 18

24 P a g e 24 Lancaster Cty leathernecks det 1169 Members of the Lancaster County Leathernecks (Detachment 1169) pose with three of the nearly thirty Marine Corps JROTC Cadets from Nation Ford High School who assisted at a Toys for Tots fundraiser. The cadets helped to raise nearly $3,000 and collect several boxes of toys at the event. Pictured with the cadets are League members Jerry Egger, Lester Bush, and Toys for Tots Coordinator, Hoss Knight. Jerry Holt, Lancaster County Leathernecks Detachment 1169, presents the Detachment's Marine of the Year Award to Emsley Griffi, a charter member of the Detachment, at the November 2017 Detachment meeting.

25 P a g e 25 Barnwell county leathernecks det 1227 We feel that our Toys For Tots program was very successful this year. We did three stand-ups, raising $ and collecting 2000 toys. There were two additional donors who contributed a total of $ for our program. We gave 900 children a very Merry Christmas and received many positive comments from the families. We contributed $ each to the three middle schools in our county to help support their DARE program. We made a contribution for each of our deceased detachment members for a light on the county Christmas tree. We held our detachment Christmas party at our building on December 21st. It was well attended by our members and their families. At that time we drew for the winner of an AR-15 that we use for a fund raiser. Our detachment participated in two veterans funerals in December. Little river det 1432 #1 is Department Commandant Jim Stone and Detachment Commandant Donald Beck and all his staff. #2 is Sr Vice Commandant Derston L Koontz giving us the POW table and what it means. With over 50 people in attendance, this was our biggest event and one a lot of people will remember for a long time.

26 P a g e 26 Boy Scout Coordinator Wade Rhoney wade77usmc@outlook.com I sent out Letters of Congratulations to the following Eagle Scouts in November: James Anderson Jeremy Blizzard Patrick Thomas Moore Ethan Ekback I also need to remind all Detachments that they are to obtain The Eagle Scout Certificates and present them to the Eagle Scout at the proper ceremony. Once the Detachment has identified the Eagle Scout, they are to send me the name and I will mail the letter to the Detachment to present along with the Eagle Scout Certificate. Americanism Committee Marilyn Tharp mtharp@sc.rr.com Committee Chair 2017 Department Americanism Awards Platoon Size 1st Place Lewis G Watkins Det 1131 Company Size 1st Place Grand Strand Det 873 2nd Place Low Country Det 803 3rd Place Riverfront Marines Det th Place James L Hammonds Det National Americanism Awards Platoon Size 1st Place Lewis G Watkins Det 1131 Company Size 2nd Place Low Country Det 803 Honorable Mention James L Hammonds Det 939 Grand Strand Det 873 Continue to work on your books throughout the year. We would like to see more Detachments enter the Americanism competition at the National Level this year. Also, we will have Americanism at the Department Level at the Convention in June.

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28 National & Dept. Officers P a g e 28 National Commandant Wendell Webb wwebb@mcleague.org Ntl Sr Vice Commandant Dennis Tobin dtobin@mcleague.org Ntl Jr Vice Commandant Johnny Baker jbaker@mcleague.org National Judge Advocate Warren Griffin wgriffin@mcleague.org Ntl Jr Past Commandant Richard Gore rgore@mcleague.org National Credentials Archie Sweet asweet@mcleague.org National Uniform Butch Raynes rr0047@sccoast.net National Young Marines Bill Davis natdirector@aol.com National Historian Don Marsh donandbettyusmc@yahoo.com Ntl Budget & Finance Mbr Charles Hardy cshwoodman@yahoo.com Ntl Vice Comm SE Division Archie Sweet asweet@mcleague.org Ntl Asst Vice Comm SE Division Michael Clark mpclark1@windstream.net SE Div Sgt At Arms Butch Raynes rr0047@sccoast.net JROTC Coordinator John Marcucci jrmarcucci@aol.com Protocol Officer Bob Burns difrompi@aol.com Veterans Affairs Jerry Kiehl jerrykiehl@yahoo.com Boy Scouts Wade Rhoney wade77usmc@outlook.com VAVS Officer Linda Roach e9roach@hotmail.com Americanism Marilyn Tharp mtharp@sc.rr.com Historian Frank Faulkner Faulkf@aol.com Web Sergeant Jerry Holt jerryholt813@gmail.com Chief of Staff Carl Doc Wilson usmcdoc@yahoo.com Toys for Tots Jim Williams jimepps53@sc.rr.com Young Marines Coordinator James Roberts hardcharger49@yahoo.com Marines for Life Program Lane Parker lane_parkerusmc@bellsouth.net Wounded Warrior Butch Raynes rr0047@sccoast.net Awards Committee Chair Jerry Holt jerryholt813@gmail.com Budget Finance Chair Charles Hardy cshwoodman@yahoo.com Newsletter Chair John & Cathy Stump jcstump@hargray.net For a complete list of National Officers visit: mclnational.org For a complete list of Department Officers visit: mcleaguesc.org

29 Marine corps history P a g e 29 SC Medal of Honor recipient Pfc. William kyle carpenter Kyle Carpenter was born October 17, 1989 in Jackson, Mississippi. He went to Parris Island for recruit training in July PFC Carpenter was assigned to Fox Company, 2nd Bat talion, 9th Marines, Regimental Combat Team One, 1st Ma rine Division (Forward), 1st Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward). They were deployed in Helmand Province, Afghanistan to support Operation Enduring Freedom. In July of 2010, Carpenter was in Marjah, still in the Helmand Province of Afghanistan. While fighting during a Taliban an attack on November 21, It is reported that Kyle threw himself on a grenade to protect a fellow Marine. He sustained injuries to his right arm, body and his face, resulting in the loss of his right eye and most of his teeth. Carpenter has had many surgeries for his wounds. He was retired medically in July 2015 as a Corporal. Cpl. Carpenter was presented his Medal of Honor on June 19, 2014 at the White House from President Obama. Carpenter graduated with his Bachelor s Degree in International Studies from the Universi- ty of South Carolina in December December 1969 The New Jersey Battleship is decommissioned. 31 December 1969 Out of 301,675 Marines that were sent to Vietnam, only 54,559 remain as of this date. 24 January 1970 Recruit Training increases to 9 weeks. 31 January 1970 The traffic on the Ho Chi Minh Trail increases 10x more than in September. Obtained from the USMC Complete History, Published by Hugh Lauter Levin Associates, Inc. 2002

30 P a g e 30 Around the southeast The Southeast Division is coming soon! This year we will be in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee in March. Visit for Hotel and Convention Registration. Hotel information on page Did you know that there are 4 awards presented at the Division banquet? The Tom Perrone Award is awarded to the Department with the greatest increase in their membership for the preceding year ending in the 2nd quarter December 31. The Milton Ockmn Award is awarded t the Department with the greatest number of new Detachments from the preceding year, ending with the 2nd quarter, December 31. The Southeast Division Rotating Attendance Award presented to the Detachment with the largest percentage of their members that are attending the Conference, based on their total Detachment strength. If there is a tie, the Detachment that traveled the greatest distance. The trophy will rotate from Detachment to Detachment in the SE Division. Regular Marines and Associates that are properly registered and attending the Conference. Neither Guests or Spouses count in the total. And lastly, Natl SE Div. Commandant The Division Marine of the Year, aka as the William D. Bill Carter. Visit the Division website for the criteria. (Standard Operating Procedures, Page 8). The Carter Award Completed Applications need to be mailed to Karl Ekstrom, 3041 W. Gallaher Ferry, Knoxville, TN Pleas follow the instructions to ensure your application is considered. Previous South Carolinians that have received this award: Archie Sweet asweet@mcleague.org 2009 Bill Hartley Sumter # Lenonard Palguta Riverfront Marines # Lane Parker James Hammonds # John Horton Riverfront Marines # John Hopkins Palmetto Marines # Thomas Perrone Grand Strand # Mary Perrone Grand Strand #873

31 Around the Nation P a g e 31 Judge Advocate Butch Raynes rr0047@sccoast.net National Uniform Chairman Many photos have been found with the Marine Corps League members wearing the wrong uniform and wearing various items on their uniform that are not authorized for wear, i.e..marine of the Year medallion with the Undress Uniform and/or Detachment/Marine Corps polo shirts; wrong lapel pins on the Red Blazer, wrong black tie with Red Blazer; wrong White Duty Belt as Sgt-at-Arms, Color Guard or Honor Guard; pins on cover; Red Blazer with Dress Blue trousers; American Flag & MODD patch on the same sleeve one above the other; rank on Undress Uniform; Pistol Holster on the duty belt; Fixed Bayonet on the M1 Grand { that is wrong so many ways } and the list goes on. Medals and Ribbons Marine Corps League and Department of Defense Medals and/or Ribbons should NEV- ER be mixed on any uniform. Medals, Ribbons, Badges may only be worn on the LEFT CHEST never anywhere on the right,. The Marine Corps League does NOT wear Ribbons, Medals, or Badges on the Right. You may wear a Name Tag and that is all. Ribbons are not to be worn on the Red Blazer at any time. French Fourragere { poggie rope} is NEVER worn with the Marine Corps League Uniform. French Fourragere was awarded to the members of the 5th and 6th Marine Regiments for their heroic actions during the Battle of Belleau Wood from the French Government in WWII, There are no active duty Marines authorized to wear the French Fourragere permanently. This is only authorized for wear while you are in the 5th or 6th Marine regiments. When you retire or are discharged from the Marine Corps, you are NOT authorized to wear the French Fourragere with the Marine Corps Uniform or the Marine Corps League Uniform. The NCO/Officer sword is also NOT authorized for wear at any time with the Marine Corps League uniform. We have come across a lot of photos with Marine Corps League membes wearing these items for Parades, Color Guards and Honor Guards. DRESS BLUES When you are doing any type of Marine Corps League function, you are representing the Marine Corps League and should wear the appropriate Marine Corps League Uniform NOT Dress Blues. Marine Corps League members should NOT be wearing their Dress Blues while recruiting members to join the League; selling raffle tickets; any type of Marine Corps League events or while doing Toys for Tots events. The Marine Corps Uniform Regulations, MCOP G prescribes the wear of the Marine Corps uniform by Veterans and/or Retirees Be sure that when you are submitting photos to be published, or posted on the web that everyone is in the proper uniform. Remember you DO NOT wear the Marine of the Year Medallion with the Undress Uniform. It is only worn with the Red Blazer or the Mess Dress Uniform.

32 Around the Nation P a g e 32 From Star Wars star Adam Driver is looking for service members who can write By: Kevin Lilley December 12, 2017 Service members past and present have until March 1 to submit an unpublished play to Arts in the Armed Forces, a group co-founded by Marine-turned-actor Adam Driver, for a chance at a $10,000 prize. The Bridge Award will mark the group s 10th anniversary. Since its founding, AITAF has staged free plays and monologue performances featuring Driver and other well-known actors at military installations worldwide. AITAF also will stage a professional reading of the winning play. The award will be presented in November at the group s annual Broadway show; this year s cast included Laurence Fishburne and Mark Ruffalo. Submissions must be made through a link on the group s website. Full rules and details also are available there, but here are some basics for aspiring writers: Current and former members of all military components are eligible, including students at service academies. No co-authored pieces will be accepted, and no screenplays, compilations of short plays or other works outside of completed plays will be considered. Finalists will receive word of their selection in mid- to late April, and will be asked to provide proof of service. Plays do not have to be about the military. Troops whose service may prevent them from attending a reading of their winning play in New York City may be eligible to host the reading at their duty station, pending command approval. A selection committee will submit finalists to Suzan-Lori Parks, whose Topdog/Underdog earned the 2002 Pulitzer Prize for drama. Parks won t speak publicly on her judging criteria, an AITAF official said, but the group s website says the contest seeks plays that are truthful, well-crafted, and use the power of language to explore the human condition. Driver will reprise his role as Kylo Ren in Star Wars: The Last Jedi, which premieres Friday. He spoke with Military Times in 2014 about the origins of AITAF as rumors swirled of his casting in The Force Awakens. Adam Driver performs a monologue during an Arts in the Armed Forces production at Grafenwoehr Performing Arts Center, Germany, in (Molly Hayden/Army)

33 Around the Nation P a g e 33 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 29, 2017 VA Announces Rollout and Application Process for New Veterans ID Card WASHINGTON Today the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced that the application process for the national Veterans Identification Card (VIC) is now available for Veterans yet another action honoring their service. This has been mandated through legislation since 2015 to honor Veterans, and today s rollout of the ID card fulfills that overdue promise. Only those Veterans with honorable service will be able to apply for the ID card, which will provide proof of military service, and may be accepted by retailers in lieu of the standard DD-214 form to obtain promotional discounts and other services where offered to Veterans. The new Veterans Identification Card provides a safer and more convenient and efficient way for most Veterans to show proof of service, said VA Secretary Dr. David J. Shulkin. With the card, Veterans with honorable service to our nation will no longer need to carry around their paper DD-214s to obtain Veteran discounts and other services. The VIC provides a more portable and secure alternative for those who served the minimum obligated time in service, but did not meet the retirement or medical discharge threshold. Veterans who served in the armed forces, including the reserve components, and who have a discharge of honorable or general (under honorable conditions) can request a VIC. To request a VIC, Veterans must visit vets.gov, click on Apply for Printed Veteran ID Card on the bottom left of the page and sign in or create an account. Veterans who apply for a card should receive it within 60 days and can check delivery status of their cards at vets.gov. A digital version of the VIC will be available online by mid-december. LEXINGTON, S.C. (AP) South Carolina s governor is proposing tax cuts for veterans and first responders. Gov. Henry McMaster said Friday he wants to exempt the military, law enforcement, firefighter and peace officer retirement from state income tax. The tax cuts would amount to about a $524 in savings for military retirees under 65 and $210 a year for those 65 and older. Savings for law enforcement, firefighters and peace officers would be about $713 a year if under 65 and $102 a year if 65 or older. McMaster says he has included the cuts in his budget. The proposal would amount to a $22.6 million tax cut in the first year and would have to be approved by the General Assembly.

34 Conventions P a g e Mid-Winter Conference March 1-3, 2018 Fredericksburg, VA Reservations: Fredericksburg Hospitality House Hotel & Conference Center Mention MCL for $94.00 per night th National Convention August 12-17, 2018 Buffalo, NY Reservations: Hyatt Regency Hotel/ Deadline: July 9, 2018 Mention: Marine Corps League Convention th National Convention August 4-9, 2018 Billings, Montana Reservations: Can not be made until the close of the 2018 Convention The 2018 Southeast Division Conference will be held at the Smoky Mountain Resorts, 204 Sharon Street, Pigeon Forge, TN March 22-25, 2018 Reservations can be made by calling; The Hotels we'll be using are Country Cascades & The Summit. Please mention the "MCL" rate! 2018 Southeast Division Conference Flyer, Registration Form & Welcome Letter and Ad Form are available on line For more info:

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36 P a g e 36 Dates to remember Jan 20, 2018 Quarterly Meeting in American Legion 10 am 200 Pickens Street, Columbia, SC Contact: Jim Stone, Commandant, Mar 1-3, Mid-Winter Conference in Fredericksburg, VA (see page 34 for more details) Contact: Bob Borka, National HQ, Mar 22-25, 2018 SE Convention in Pigeon Forge, TN. (see page 34 for more details) Contact: Archie Sweet, SE Div NVC, asweet@mcleague.org April 21, 2018 Quarterly Meeting in American Legion 10am 200 Pickens Street, Columbia, SC Contact: Jim Stone, Commandant, Note from the Editor Installation and Awards are starting throughout the Department. Please send me pics with a short caption and identify members. You do not have to wait until I send out a message. When sending in articles or pictures, please put in the Subject line FOR DEPT NEWSLETTER, DET (NO). Anytime you take pictures, esp. if you will have a Marine or Associate of the Year, send it right away. I try to not edit unless space warrants it. Please proof read and spellcheck your articles. Thank you, Deborah