While you and your familys service is gratefuly appreciated, as a vietnam vet I have never talked or disscused voluntarily my service time as much as you seem to be inclined to do. She deserves it all! [8] After driving trucks for a few years, he wanted to go back to Manila and believed he could get there faster by serving in the Marine Corps rather than in the Army. Its a warm joy to read the postings here. . Im such a fan my brother bought me a John Basilone t shirt. I needed urgent medical care at a VA medical center.Lena help cut much of the red tape get me in for care that very day.I have never forgotten what she did. It the untold storys you eventually get to hear that you never forget Im so glad that this was shared, Marie: Lena was the pioneer for what the post WWII Marine corps would be today.Women are playing a vital role in what occurs in the modern USMC today. May 10, 2013!! Sgt. John Basilone: Marine Hero of Guadalcanal and Iwo Jima Hi Barbara! What an amazing lady. : http://www.facebook.com/groups/10868541353/. When she reached adulthood she left Oregon to attend business school. John Basilone's relationship with Lena Mae Basilone ended when John Basilone died on February 19, 1945. [22], Gunnery Sergeant Basilone's military awards include:[23]. He went to recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, followed by training at Marine Corps Base Quantico and New River. He was one of a family of ten children. : My dad was the same way even though. I am proud to be a citizen from the same country, USA, as these two remarkable people and salute their service and sacrifices. He was 78. The service teachs you to do things bigger than yourself. [5] In the Army, Basilone was initially assigned to the 16th Infantry at Fort Jay, New York, before being discharged for a day, reenlisting, and being assigned to the 31st Infantry.[6][7]. The U.S. Navy named a destroyer after him in 1945, which Lena Mae christened. To Ssg Rick doc Borenstein almost every comment by you has included you and your family participation in various wars. I am at least a 3rd generation medic. I had family in 1st Mar Div ahead of and had to join the Army in 73. Also, just as deeply in awe of Johns heroism, his ultimate sacrifice, and Lenas continued devotion to him for over 50 years. Lena was a pioneer Marine and very dedicated both to the Corps and to John. BASILONE'S sections, with its gun crews, was put out of action, leaving only 2 men able to carry on. I believe they had no further contact with her. In 21 Dec 1945 Lena christened a Navy destroyer ship named the USS Basilone in her husband's honor. Legacy. She may have never forgiven him for going back into battle. the bridge stood for 10 days and collapsed? John Basilone - Wikipedia I found your blog by chance and thoroughly enjoyed this article about Lena. The Japanese charged the hill relentlessly, with dead Japanese soldiers serving as human bridges so that their remaining comrades could cross over the barbed wire fences near the American perimeter. They were only married 7 months when John fell in battle within 2-4 hours of hitting the beach. I think their story is wonderful, and I am honoring our heritage as women in the Marines and her service to our nation by writing about the lost story of her life. Hi, your very lucky to have known Lena Basilone. During brutal fighting with heavy casualties on both sides, he killed at least 38 Japanese soldiers. I feel pontoon bridges which were being built during and after the first weakening of the main bridge should have mandated use of the pontoon bridges to save engineers lives. Marine Corps University > Research > Marine Corps History Division Lena helped many of us including me to get help from the VA.While I had briefly known her. Such a self-effacing woman she must have been, all the while doing so much good for others! These drones can remain airborne until a target is identified at which point they set a course for that target and go out in a blaze of glory. At 7 p.m. Sept. 17, the Raritan Valley Symphonic Band will present the free 27th John Basilone Commemorative Concert at Raritan Valley Community College in Branchburg. Are their any other books about him? She is truely my hero as well as her husband. I loved the movie Pacific and i felt horrible when he died so young after they were married. Regards, David, I still dont understand Lenas comment about not wanting to be a bother to anyone and NOT be buried near her husband to be quite strange. This has been an exclusively a mans kingdom. The heart broken widow bride - History of Sorts She was an incredible human being and an even better marine, but before posting an article make sure you watch the entire series there were 2 more episodes after your supposed conclusion. to me it was a tough and frustrating war in many ways. The were either Green Berets or medics, a supply clerk and even grunts. Lena was notified of his death on March 7, 1945 - her 32nd birthday. The Lena I knew would rather be buried where she was because she didnt seek the limelight and wanted to live a quiet life. I wish I had an opportunity to know her more closely. John Basilone - Home of Heroes My uncles Dwight, Gil and Corky fought on Iwo. Lena had an important job, seeing that the mess hall efficiently functioned ,and providing good food to keep up morale.This is what Lena was all about. His five older siblings were born in Raritan, New Jersey, before the family moved to Buffalo where John was born; they returned to Raritan in 1918. Giving Johns Medal of Honor to his Mom and Dad was a selfless and gracious gift . Thanks for posting her story. They both left with honorable discharges and they were both Sargents. Uncompromising with her conversations. Im writing a piece on Lena Basilone, I am a Marine and have been looking to speak with people that could share stories about Lena, and her life of love, friendship and her service to veterans after the Marine Corps. We both felt there was bigger job to medics. May 26, 2016 4:29 PM PT. I guess being a diabetic with a full ankle replacement i would just be more of a problem for the military rather than a help. The Life And Legend Of John Basilone: Marine Medal Of Honor Winner And I wanted t join the USMC in 1st MARDIV but my cousin and uncle were already there and I had to settle for the Army. Many, including Virginia herself, expected them to marry . It was there that John died, in an exchange of heavy gunfire on the island of Iwo Jima. I am confident that they have been reunited and are now able to enjoy the chance to be together forever that the war took away from them. During Virginia's participation in WWII bond drives, she developed a close relationship with John Basilone, . Marine Sergeant John Basilone receives his Medal of Honor in recognition of his heroism on Guadalcanal on October 24-25, 1942. Basilone met his future wife, Lena Mae Riggi, who was a Sergeant in the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. Lena Basilone ran an extremely well regarded mess hall and led her Marines. I didnt write for periods up to 1 month. Annie Parisse - Wikipedia Remembering the ultimate Marine, John Basilone, on Memorial Day Gotta gp get em.,during a hail of gunfire.Later in other conflicts it was knowledge I definitely needed and used, as it save my life. I guess we all have our way to remember those important to us. After his request to return to the fleet was approved, Basilone was assigned to "C" Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division. She was stationed at Camp Pendleton where she served as a field cook on the base attaining the rank of Sergeant. Born on November 4, 1916 in Ruritan, New Jersey, Basilone was the six of ten children in an Italian family and would grow up as a tough young man. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country. [2] He was the sixth of ten children. It has a cost, a soldiers life. Basilone so deeply loved only makes that respect more profound. Barbara; Thank you for this insight in to Lena Basilone. John Basilone killed at Iwo Jima - by Marc Lancaster - Substack I tried your church and they had nothing and various places and people in Ca,You were so important to Aunt Lena. I served 33 1/2 years from the Vietnam Era to Iraq.. John's wife, Lena, originally from Oregon, remained in California after John's death and never remarried. Stouthearted and indomitable, Gunnery Sergeant BASILONE, by his intrepid initiative, outstanding skill, and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of the fanatic opposition, contributed materially to the advance of his company during the early critical period of the assault, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout the bitter conflict was an inspiration to his comrades and reflects the highest credit upon Gunnery Sergeant BASILONE and the United States Naval Service. I was treated a few times at the VA facility in Long Beach where Lena helped get a lol of us through the system at the hospital. , Brad Garrett Wife Height, Is A Mobile Home Considered Real Property In Florida, Animated Music Videos . Virginia Grey Entertainment - Actress Why Famous: Hullabaloo, film Age: 87 (3/22/1917 - 7/31/2004) Virginia Grey's Relationships (3) John Basilone Other - Other Why Famous: Recipient of Medal of Honor for Battle of Guadalcanal G-d keep us always in palm of your hand and love us always. Lena saw to it that I got the care I needed that day and helped me work through the system there. Virginia Grey dated John Basilone in the past, but they have since broken up. Her group of women were heavily complimented and recognized by the marines they served for good chow. If you call any of them a winner you are disgracing the recipients and those who died earning it. John Basilone - Arlington National Cemetery I read the book Im staying with my boys. My cousins, and two uncles fought there and I learned quickly what Vietnam was about. Att.net mail login | | Where commons rule P.S. I never get tired of watching Pacific.My dad was in the Navy 22 yrs, served in the Pacific,in all the island hopping campaigns. Lena was the pioneer and was a very strong Non commissioned officer and ran a very good mess hall. She helped a lot of vets navigate the system at LAs VA. During her participation in WWII bond drives, she developed a close relationship with John Basilone, US Marine Medal of Honor recipient, who was later killed on Iwo Jima. Regards, SSg Rick Doc Borenstein ret, US Army Medical Dept. Japan lost a key advantage of giving [15] They honeymooned at an onion farm near Portland, Oregon.[16]. After Gable's third wife, Carole Lombard, died in 1942 and he returned from military service in 1944, he and Virginia were often seen at restaurants and nightclubs together. And I hope that in some small way I brought joy to her life, I know she enriched mine ! One must remember that Sgt Basilone volunteer to return to battle which he did not have too being a MOH recipient. I can also say to you that those who do - seem to need some sort of verification for their time in country. I have learned that Lena was a strong willed woman which made her what she was. The . Thank You David. [11] Afterwards, Private First Class Nash W. Phillips of Fayetteville, North Carolina, recalled from the battle for Guadalcanal: "Basilone had a machine gun on the go for three days and nights without sleep, rest, or food. My father was a medic,like me. It's simply . Lena was a legend as was John.Lena helped a lot of vets at the VA navigate the system and get what they needed. Just thought her comment about not wanting to be a bother to anyone was a bit unusual..but am beginning to see that it was instead just very much in her character. My dad fought in the Peleliu campaign. He was an Army NCO in his mind. Aside from numerous decorations, Basilone received other honors for his bravery. I thank you for you service and recognize what you did for us soldiers Respectfully,SSG.RichardDocBorenstein(Retired) Combat Medic, Welcome David: My name is SSG RickDoc Borenstein I served in the US Army from 1973-2007 and retired. I thought I would share some of the information I have found on Lena Basilone, it's not much, but here it is. At that time women were not accepted in a mans world in the military at that time. The story is woven with surprising personal details. John Basilone - Alchetron, The Free Social Encyclopedia Whether Geneva convention rules exist or not, you use weapons or do what it take to win.. I hope in some small measure I brought honor to Lena. strips, they finally agreed to put Sgt.on her grave marker. He was the only enlisted Marine in World War II to receive the Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross. God bless Sgt. My biggest campaigns was Korea in the 70s, Desert Storm,(2 tours) Bosnia, and Iraq. Basilone moved an extra gun into position and maintained continual fire against the incoming Japanese forces. He served as a medic like I did and later became a doctor. Take care, SSG RickDoc Borenstein,US Army Medical Dept, (ret). Many airmens lives were saved as a result because fighter escort was there too to shepard the bombers that went to Japan. They were married on July 7, 1944 and spent some time . However, in my research: Ive discovered several factual errors in the miniseries re: the episodes showing the courtship of John and Lena. Some were there when I wanted to to be a Marines,and the rules said I could not be one. Year Title Role Notes 1999 On the Q.T. I love reading everything about ww2 and the greatest generation. For extraordinary heroism while serving as a Leader of a Machine-Gun Section, Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 19 February 1945. sabrinammessenger..WELL SAID!! She lived in California, worked for the electric company, and volunteered to serve in several organizations related to Marine. Her love and bond so strong that she stayed single over 50 years. Regards,SSg RickDoc Borenstein Ret. They had been married for 7.3 months. He rarely talked about WW2 like a lot of other vets. I appreciate Barbara Garners knowledge of Lena because I think she is a daughter to Lena. I knew Lena briefly because I had to have an urgent medical problem taken care of at the VA and she helped me cut much of the red tape. He was shot down over the Isle de Olerun in southern france,on thwway to plaster German airfields 3 months before Normandy, he fell on 3-27-44. "That was our first real look, up close, at the war."-John Basilone. Gunnery Sergeant Basilone's buddies on Guadalcanal called him "Manila John" because he had served with the Army in the Philippines before enlisting in the Marine Corps. It is something the infantry appreciates or as grunts.Barbara Garner knew her best.My father and a lot of my uncles served in the Pacific as pilots, medics ,and grunts, one was a coxswain on the LCVPs or Higgins boats.. The Greatest Generation. Military units comprising the Defense CBRN Response Force (DCRF) participated in Exercis []. or what its supposed to be. John Basilone MoH. Women marines can be rifleman which it is only right and fair. And finally, while home on leave, Basilone predicts his own death on Iwo Jima. However, I was impressed by the story of Lena and John Basilone. He clearly foresaw his future three separate times. Let us remember who they were and the ultimate sacrifice made for us all. The other person that helped vets in the LA area was Audie L Murphys wife, Terry. My dad and I were medics, My dad fought alongside the Marines as an Army medic.He saw battle in the Marshall,Marianas islands and Peleliu.We looked like the infantry,because we carried rifles,and other weapons as we needed to protect our selves as well as patients. I have 8 combat campaigns from Vietnam era to Iraq.It was my frame of combat reference.. Charles "Check" Tatum. In the forefront of the assault at all times, he pushed forward with dauntless courage and iron determination until, moving upon the edge of the airfield, he fell, instantly killed by a bursting mortar shell. During her time there she met John Basilone, a Marine and the first United States decorated World War II hero. It is the blood of John and those who served that binds the mortar of the foundation of the greatest nation ever! It doesnt go into as much depth as you have but it does give her closure in the series. Donald F. Basilone (1929-2022) - monumento Find a Grave for service as set forth in the following CITATION: For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous gallantry in action against enemy Japanese forces, above and beyond the call of duty, while serving with the 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division in the Lunga Area, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 24 and 25 October 1942. VERY fascinating story about both Gy Basilone and Sgt Lena. Hi Vera: I am pleased to read your post. He was in a good emplacement, and causing the Japanese lots of trouble, not only firing his machine gun, but also using his pistol."[8]. His love for her was her memorial. John Basilone | Medal of Honor Recipient | Study.com I write this with tears streaming as I think about the years of fun we shared together. In my mind from what I have learned about Peleiu it was a blood affair on both sides. Please let me know. You truley were a good friend to her. I am amazed that they kept their mental sanity, but did suffer from PTSD as I do. Military units comprising the Defense CBRN Response Force (DCRF) participated in Exercise [], FORT HOOD, Texas (Dec.11, 2022) Members of the search fire and rescue team, assigned to the Marine Corps Chemical, Biological Incident Response Force, drill through concrete while conducting a rescue during Exercise Sudden Response 23 at Fort Hood, Texas Dec. 11, 2022. His great personal valor and courageous initiative were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. The younger people have never learned this and it is a strange concept to them . The war was shortend by what they did. Why did she not want to be buried with or near him? My mother was a lot like Lena. Lena Basilone teachs me a lot even after she is gone from our presence. I salute everybody and those of us who survived. Though a miniseries of its own, The Pacific was created as a companion to another popular wartime miniseries by HBO: Band of Brothers, which premiered in 2001 and focused on World War II.The Pacific presents the stories of three U.S. Marine Corps members - Eugene Sledge, Robert Leckie, and John Basilone - and their experiences in the Pacific Theater of Operations during the Pacific War. The legs were long, so they were rolled up.the waist was generally too big, so the y cinched up a belt around their waist. I agree with you, for theres more to the story then meets the eye. Basilone, John, "Manila John". - WW2 Gravestone As a veteran, I have profound respect for her service to this country. If possible I would like to speak with you about setting up an introduction so that his niece can speak with you. It was my joy and privilege to be able to stay with her often in her home, to drive her for outings, groceries, shopping, doctor appointments or out to lunch or supper. They fought the war professionally and with great courage and valor.Their service shall always honored and remembered. Lena never forgot us and took care of us. I was a busy medic and many days circumstances precluded writing.We do overlook the homefront but we have better communication, specifically emails now.and Skype.Lena and John would like these changes.I served as a medic to many of the combat arms so I hope my insights help. She married only one man my father Dr. Milton K Borenstein MD. Basilone, a member of the U.S. Marines, received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his action . John Basilone. She gave to his family to not be selfish and share. This weekend GySgt John Basilones niece will be staying with me here in DC for the Iwo Jima reunion and symposium as well as working on the official documentary of John Basilone and Lena Riggi. Marine's heroism gave him legendary status. [21] His widow, Lena M. Basilone, died on June 11, 1999, aged 86, and is buried at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California. David: World War II in the Pacific was a war I hope humankind doesnt engage n again for a while. Lena was a pioneer and an example many Marines can follow, I forgot to comment on you father. Although the Veterans Administration offered to bury Lena in Arlington Cemetery near her husband, she refused the offer saying she didnt want to cause trouble for anyone. My uncles are marine and Navy vets as well as my two brothers who are Marines. They were both rare kind of Marines. Sgt Lena Mae (Riggi) Basilone | The semi-normal, day - a female Marine I caught heck from Mom for not writing. My dad was a medic on Peleliu. While stationed at Camp Pendleton, he met his future wife, Lena Mae Riggi, who was a Sergeant in the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. Thanks to a character in the recent television series called The Pacific, the name of a female Marine has made an appearance on the pop culture radar: Lena Mae Riggi. This is probably why it occurred. Maybe a bio or maybe a fictionalized with fact sort of book ala Alex Haileys Rootsbut we shall see what we shall see. Lena too lived a life of service Helping many veterans. On one occasion I drove Lena to Camp Pendleton for a celebration of the Womens Marine Corp. 60th anniversary, (I think it was 60) It was so great seeing how she was honored and revered by the young lady Marines. The tickets are free but . If Gy Basilone, one of the greatest Marines who ever lived, had respect for a Woman Marine enough to marry one, then they need to show respect, too!
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