Three Legends Converge
Posted: Sat Nov 09, 2013 3:37 pm
As part of my USMC tribute this weekend, I'll post a link to a 1976 tribute of Chesty Puller hosted by John Wayne and directed by John Ford: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLI3cYt9FaE
As I have Chesty as my avatar, maybe you'll understand why I have it there: I also recommend reading the 2001 biography by Jon T. Hoffman. Sure, maybe Chesty is today regarded as a bit of a cariacature, but this man is still recognized by the USMC as perhaps the ultimate Marine, and his legendary status is well-deserved. It is no doubt true that men who gain legendary status are often stereotyped, and Lt Gen Lewis B. Puller is a prime example of this.
Over his career, Puller earned five Navy Crosses and a Distinguished Service Cross.
It is also true that the USMC has become a master at promoting itself. It's done a great job at doing this over the post-WWII years. Even today, it takes great pride as calling itself "The Few and the Proud".
I would add that the most famous picture of WWII is probably the second flag raising at Mt Suribachi, an image that so captivated the US public that it became the basis for the statue of the USMC war memorial outside Arlington Cemetery.
As I have Chesty as my avatar, maybe you'll understand why I have it there: I also recommend reading the 2001 biography by Jon T. Hoffman. Sure, maybe Chesty is today regarded as a bit of a cariacature, but this man is still recognized by the USMC as perhaps the ultimate Marine, and his legendary status is well-deserved. It is no doubt true that men who gain legendary status are often stereotyped, and Lt Gen Lewis B. Puller is a prime example of this.
Over his career, Puller earned five Navy Crosses and a Distinguished Service Cross.
It is also true that the USMC has become a master at promoting itself. It's done a great job at doing this over the post-WWII years. Even today, it takes great pride as calling itself "The Few and the Proud".
I would add that the most famous picture of WWII is probably the second flag raising at Mt Suribachi, an image that so captivated the US public that it became the basis for the statue of the USMC war memorial outside Arlington Cemetery.
