Marines

Wounded warriors honored with luncheon

8 Dec 2008 | Cpl. Jessica Martinez Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

No other branch of service takes as much pride
in itself as the Marine Corps. Every Marine is accustomed
to the saying “Once a Marine, always
a Marine,” and those words not only take precedence
in the minds, but in the souls of the Marines
who will always live and be a part of an undying
brotherhood.


Marines of the past and present gathered to
break bread, Nov. 20, at the Ball Center during the
Houston Chapter 1st Marine Division Association
luncheon held for all wounded, injured and
ill Marines and sailors recovering at the Wounded
Warrior Battalion-East, showing the camaraderie
instilled in all Marines.


“I was in combat in World War II, Korea and
Vietnam,” said retired Sgt. Maj. George F. Meyer. “I
was always taught to respect and protect my fellow
Marines. To raise the funds to have this luncheon for
the younger Marines is such a great honor to me.”
It’s important to recognize their sacrifice to
God and country, he said. He is grateful for the
work the younger generation is doing these days,
and said he feels the luncheon was a small token
of that appreciation.


It’s not uncommon for retired and former Marines
to support active duty Marines. It’s how Marines
live. It’s what they do — keeping the bond
between past and present. It is also appreciated by
Marines today.


“All the people who lend a hand to us are really
wonderful,” said Cpl. Ryan C. Hughes, a member
of the WWBn-E. “Talking with them makes me
realize how different things are now from the past.
Thanks to the Marines who went through tougher
times and weren’t treated as well; they now strive
to make sure Marines are now taken care of and
not forgotten.”


When Marines attend recruit training, it’s instilled
in them how vital it is to look out for their
fellow Marines.


“It’s definitely important to take care of each
other, whether you’re in the Corps for four years
or 20 years, you’re always a Marine,” said Hughes.
“I’m very grateful for everything they’ve done and
continue to do for us.”


It’s a simple concept. Marines take care of their
own, whether they’re active duty or retired, “once
a Marine, always a Marine.”