Pacific Wrecks - The Pacific Episode 8 - Historical Commentary on The The Marines had a Sullivans which I fell victim too, I wanted to be a Marine. However, in John's case, something got mixed up. She had much empathy for every veteran. Basilone, John, "Manila John". - WW2 Gravestone The John Basilone Memorial Parade is the only parade in the country honoring a World War II hero. She must have been a great marine. Date of Death : February 19, 1945, Iwo Jima Airport / Iohjima Airport / Iohtoh Airport, Ogasawara, Tokyo, Japan : Place of Birth : Buffalo : Country: . 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. They were dumb animals who wanted . Hope you were able to get the Pacific series. GySgt John Basilones niece will be staying with me here in DC for the next few days. My dad was a medic on Peleliu. John Basilone - Net Worth 2023, Age, Height, Bio, Birthday, Wiki! did john basilone sleep with virginia grey - Viva Africa LLP I missed the mini-series The Pacific so Im going to have to find a DVD. 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. There are no words to describe this amazing lady. Take care, SSG RickDoc Borenstein,US Army Medical Dept, (ret). May they rest in peace. VERY fascinating story about both Gy Basilone and Sgt Lena. Women Marines are such an important part of the Marine Corps. Having Served 21 years of Active Duty from 1970 to 1992. Japan initiated it and made the rules in my mind, The USMC adapted and fought accordingly. I always signed in as herdaughter, to be able to have access to her and her doctors. Marine's heroism gave him legendary status - San Diego Union-Tribune Lena was a pioneer and an example many Marines can follow, I forgot to comment on you father. I reluctantly want to fight wars but as a medic we are needed to ease the suffering and save lives, Hi SGT Rick, i love everything about the greatest generation. On October 24, 1942, during the Battle for Henderson Field, his unit came under attack by a regiment of about 3,000 soldiers from the Japanese Sendai Division using machine guns, grenades, and mortars against the American heavy machine guns. 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. Once in a while, I add a friends name to it. Her parents were Italian immigrants. God bless! Wendy 2003 How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days: Jeannie Ashcroft 2004 Pagans: Elise Ashton 2004 National Treasure: Agent Dawes Military units comprising the Defense CBRN Response Force (DCRF) participated in Exercis []. Ca.. Thank you, to the Sergeants Basilone for their service, and may God have united you again in heaven. I know one person who could answer this question better than me. I hope in some small measure I brought honor to Lena. If so where can I find it. John Basilone - Home of Heroes Lena Basilone was a very independent and rugged individual, who epitomized what the USMC is all about. Peter J. Basilone, 78, Balto. Co. register - Baltimore Sun May 26, 2016 4:29 PM PT. They were legendary icons and did their duties beyond what was required of them. I love my Vietnam compadres and family. Ive met only recently the story of John Basilone and now, thanks to your words, even a little of the life of Lena. The Women Marines Association (WMA) Emergency Grants provide financial assistance to active duty or Veterans who are facing unexpected financial crises. I grew up learning all about both of them.The Marines were blessed to have these soldiers.This is why we are a free country by their mere presence 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. The heart broken widow bride - History of Sorts Robin: Ask Barbara About what Lena said I dont want to bother anyone because she was like a daughter to Lena. I write this with tears streaming as I think about the years of fun we shared together. The Headstone indicated in the photograph, is not The Headstone at Her Grave. She did have beautiful soft natural slightly curly hair, and she kept it short.. Despite their supply lines having been cut off by enemies who had infiltrated into the rear, Basilone fought through hostile ground to resupply his heavy machine gunners with urgently needed supplies. One primary example was the Womens Air Service Pilots, out of Abilene Texas. The Pacific - Death of John Basilone - YouTube I am proud to call John and Lena. Uncompromising with her conversations. Regards, SSG, Rick R. Doc Borenstein. He then repaired and manned another machine gun, holding the defensive line until relief arrived. Lena earned the right to be buried next to John. Regardless of whether Basilone's ability was real or imagined, what matters is that he believed it, making his request for orders to the fleet and his actions on Iwo Jima all the more astounding. Hi Barbara! John Basilone. Thank You very much for being Lenas family. Their bomber was called Cabin In the sky. Please feel free to email me at Alison.bardeguez@usmc.mil. Was your father on the bridge when that occurred? Great Love Happens Once: The Enduring Story of John and Lena Basilone If I myself was able to sacrifice myself to save even 2 people I had never met, believe me, I would do that. She was laid to rest in the National Cemetery at Riverside, California. 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. Hi Vera: I am pleased to read your post. The Marines and Army suffered over 10000 casualities.. On her 32nd birthday she receive word of Johns death on Iwo Jima.He was one of the many who laid their lives down for not only fellow Marines, but also for US Army airmen in crippled B29s who could not return to the Mariana Island base and would have had to face the perils of the Pacific. The Basilone Family and Raritan Learns of John's Death. Explore John Basilone net worth, birthday, height, age, bio, salary, 2023! So these male Marines of today who want to diss on women in the Corps need to be quiet. I didnt write for periods up to 1 month. I especially loved the story about Manila John and Sgt Lena! The date was February 19, 1945. [12] After the parade, Basilone toured the country raising money for the war effort and achieved celebrity status. . They were married at St. Mary's Star of the Sea . He went to recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, followed by training at Marine Corps Base Quantico and New River. Lena lives within a lot of us,sons of Pacific veterans and contemporary Marines and soldiers.Regards,SSG Rick ,Doc Borenstein, Hello Mrs. Barbara Garner, are an Italian lady and my name is Stella. Aside from numerous decorations, Basilone received other honors. Great Love Happens Once: The Enduring Story of John and Lena Basilone Although she was just. She even said when you had the best,who wants the rest especially after John was killed at Iwo Jima. The parade made national news in Life magazine and Fox Movietone News. he met his future wife, Lena Mae Riggi, who was a Sergeant in the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. I have seen what they went through and it mirrors my own combat experiences,5 deployments worth.since 1991 to 2007.Lena Basilone and John were my heros and did their jobs to what they knew was their best. Raritan to hold 35th annual John Basilone Memorial Parade John Basilone - Military Wiki | Fandom John Basilone whom she was aware of. He was the only enlisted Marine to receive both of these decorations in World War II. They exhibited little gratitude when she gave the family the medal and insurance proceeds. She was never accepted by Johns family, as if she had taken him away from them. They finally agreed to wife of Sgt.John Basilone. He was the only enlisted Marine to receive both of these . I just saw this site today for the first time. I am amazed that they kept their mental sanity, but did suffer from PTSD as I do. Virginia Grey is now deceased. Its a warm joy to read the postings here. As a combat veteran myself it was extremely realistic and told what it was like. His relatives basked in his reflected glory due to his MOH and widely reported heroism. WEnow are beginning to treat veterans with this problem. 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. John stood up to run. did john basilone sleep with virginia grey - stmatthewsbc.org I have written about Her for years, and a photograph of the current Headstone can be found at. She was very selfless.and helped without expecting anything in return. As she moved into her 80s, health issues began to crop up. During the fighting on Guadalcanal in October 1942, Basilone's actions would result in him being awarded the Medal of Honor. That she and Gunnery Sgt. She remained married to her hero for the rest of her life . I appreciate Barbara Garners knowledge of Lena because I think she is a daughter to Lena. My name is Ali Bardeguez, and I was wondering if maybe you had some insight to her upbringing? Regards Doc I Was A combat medic like my father, Thank You for thinking of Lena Basilone.She did a lot as was mentioned in my previous comments.She helped a lot of our veterans get access to services they needed. She was such a compassionate, no nonsense, spirited lady. By the end of the engagement, Japanese forces opposite the Marines' lines had been virtually annihilated. You know the the part when theyre having breakfast and where John says its incredible about what can happen over a cup of coffee? Yes, Id say the operative word there is incredible considering that Lenas father and mother had both passed away by the time Lena had enlisted in 1943. Thanks for posting her story. I wonder why she only appeared in public the one time on his behalf Did she ever say more about her husband or her marriage? Just 26 years old, Manila John Basilone had entered the ranks of the Marine Corps pantheon of heroes -- and shortly America would take the big, handsome Marine with jug ears and a smile like a neon sign to their hearts. I tried your church and they had nothing and various places and people in Ca,You were so important to Aunt Lena. I am a retired US Army medic that served for 33 1/2 years. I served for 34 years nearly and the others did service from 4-30 years.I definitely appreciate what family did in Vietnam. My father was a medic and water purification specialist. Marine God Puller: Sgt. Lena Basilone Pictures - Blogger John Basilone (November 4, 1916 - February 19, 1945) was a United States Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant who received the Medal of Honor for actions during the Battle for Henderson Field in the Guadalcanal campaign, and the Navy Cross posthumously for extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Iwo Jima. She was definitely an in charge Sergeant,but was well respected because she too could lead. The civilian man initially had no pulse, and bystanders told the Marine they assumed he was dead. If possible I would like to speak with you about setting up an introduction so that his niece can speak with you. It is the blood of John and those who served that binds the mortar of the foundation of the greatest nation ever! We do a ceremony every wednesday for Vets without Families WE look straight out on her grave Rest in Peace Lena Basilone. Its great to learn more about the people behind the name. Lena Basilone returns John's Medal of Honor - YouTube I know she would enrich my life. I just had a question, was she close to his family after he passed? January. I felt both sides descended in to a hell that was what unimaginable to the human mind. the Germans set the charges of explosives off but they failed. Basilone's Medal of Honor citation reads as follows: The President of the United States in the name of The Congress takes pride in presenting the MEDAL OF HONOR to. The number 456 references one of hundreds of end notes in the back of the book. 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. Basilone received numerous honors, including the following: John Basilone receiving the Medal of Honor in 1943. G-d keep us always in palm of your hand and love us always. I served from 73-2007 Vietnam era to Iraq. I loved the movie Pacific and i felt horrible when he died so young after they were married. Basilone fought. Truly a wonderful woman of strong beliefs. Barbara; Thank you for this insight in to Lena Basilone. During Virginia's participation in WWII bond drives, she developed a close relationship with John Basilone, . On October 24, 1942, John Basilone was supporting the war effort in the Lunga Area. My dad served in the Pacific with the US Army who was in the Marshall Island, Marianas,and Peleliu. I want to honor her life and her lost story- but I cannot do that properly without personal testament. I agree with you, for theres more to the story then meets the eye. December 26, 2022 by Robin. The top brass who gave the OK should be the ones to blame. Lena received a telegram and went back to the beach, mourning him. The other person that helped vets in the LA area was Audie L Murphys wife, Terry. He left for Camp Pendleton, California, for training on December 27. It was so sad that they never got to spend their lives together. Japan two hours of early warning of raids. Women recently won an important victory, they now can be combat arms officers. , Brad Garrett Wife Height, Is A Mobile Home Considered Real Property In Florida, Animated Music Videos . I am amazed that many men did come out psychologically scarred, having no treatment.but still got their live together to function and cope To me Lenas generation was a very strong one. It had a few details that were not accurate and you were correct. Famous Hookups; Nav; Celebrities. Keep up the good work Women Marines Association! To me as I have said before was a legend of her own in the Marine Corps. I just watched HBO's The Pacific episode 7, it was great, tons of action. But she always contended it would be too much trouble. offspring chris havel wife; airigh 'n eilean; ontario bar exam results 2020. project zomboid ham radio frequencies; gunton hall rooms; kauai hotels kama'aina rate 2021; mary katherine backstrom net worth 2020; blackstone managing director salary. A bust of Basilone is sited at Piazza Basilone, in, The Order of the Sons of Italy In America Lodge #2442 in, This page was last edited on 21 February 2023, at 22:45. and we lost fewer soldiers because of better medical. From what Ive read they gained a lot of prestige. John Basilone - Arlington National Cemetery The Lena I knew would rather be buried where she was because she didnt seek the limelight and wanted to live a quiet life. Lena was the same kind of a Marine too. Remembering John Basilone, Medal of Honor, USMC Guadalcanal Only 34 Japanese survived it. I caught heck from Mom for not writing. Hello All: The tickets are free but . The price of freedom is not cheap. My god she was a hero as well as her husband. She got so excited around Christmas when it was time to get gifts together to take to the wounded war heroes!! God love the brothers from Nam and I never stop thinking about you guys. John Basilone and Lena Mae Basilone | Married Divorced Children Ex The war was shortend by what they did. While stationed at Camp Pendleton, he met his future wife, Lena Mae Riggi, who was a Sergeant in the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. [15] They honeymooned at an onion farm near Portland, Oregon.[16]. Nick Name: Manila John Also Known As: Manila John Died At Age: 28 Family: Spouse/Ex-: Lena Mae Riggi (m. 1944) father: Salvatore Basilone mother: Theadora Bencivenga Born Country: United States Soldiers American Men Height: 1.8 m Died on: February 19, 1945 place of death: Ogasawara, Tokyo, Japan Ancestry: Italian American She married only one man my father Dr. Milton K Borenstein MD. My Uncle Dick fought and flag razed on Mount Suribaci. I wished he didnt go back to war but he was truly a hero and great marine. Her life and her love is a chapter sadly left untold. Great Love Happens Once: The Enduring Story of Marines John and Lena We did our jobs and what were asked to do. Doesnt make sense to me at all, along with returning his medal of honor and insurance to his family. My father was on Peleiliu as a medic and thats what I think spooked him and he finished the war in Hawaii. One must remember that Sgt Basilone volunteer to return to battle which he did not have too being a MOH recipient. I wish i was around then. These Marines were the pioneers who created an Army I passed my torch unto as well as Marine Corps we have today. We talked about her experiences. My hero as well as her husband. Amen. I salute her, Ms. Garner: I saw the PACIFIC documentary. I had members of my family who served in the USMC and some were on Guadalcanal and Iwo Jima. As a veteran, I have profound respect for her service to this country. I read the book Im staying with my boys. I also had the chance to tell her about Sgt. She is my hero. All that being said THANK YOU for your service and I am truly happy and grateful that you returned home, MAY GOD BLESS YOU and your family. Your email address will not be published. Lena saw to it that I got the care I needed that day and helped me work through the system there. I can also say to you that those who do - seem to need some sort of verification for their time in country. This is what I remember about Lena. My mom had me and cousins who served over the years in the US and Israeli military. A simple handshake and thank you was all the recognition he wanted.I also feel Lena found out John was killed on her 32nd birthday. Blue 'Pacific' - New York Post I am finding this is a need especially this last Friday when a retired E7 took his daughters and himself in a homicide.-suicide. For the next seven months, they made the best of their time together before Basilone left for Iwo Jima with his regiment. And your efforts have been repaid many times over I am sure, by those who now know more about her. This may include medical bills, eviction notices, or other relevant documents. Think we need more people like Lena, your Dad, and yourself. John Basilone (November 4, 1916 February 19, 1945) was a United States Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant who received the Medal of Honor for actions during the Battle for Henderson Field in the Guadalcanal campaign, and the Navy Cross posthumously for extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Sgt Lena Mae (Riggi) Basilone | The semi-normal, day - a female Marine Thank you for your comments.My father and your fathers dedicated service in the Pacific will not be forgotten by me.The Basilones John and Lena were legends. A little later, with ammunition critically low and the supply lines cut off, Sgt. Lena Basilone returns her late husband's Medal of Honor to his family.From HBO's "The Pacific", episode 10 of 10. I think this battlespooked him. Lena was a person who lived life with a low profile and she was laid to rest in Riverside countys VA cemetery. He enlisted in the Marine Corps on June 3, 1940, after serving three years in the United States Army with duty in the Philippines. DocBorenstein Lena loved her volunteer work at the VA Hospital in Long Beach. Deeply moved and deeply saddened by the story of John and Lena. On December 8, 1941, she went to go shopping. Women marines can be rifleman which it is only right and fair. He was killed on February 19, 1945 in an exchange of heavy gunfire on Iwo Jima. 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. Female Marines serve in any occupational field except combat infantry, artillery or armor. I had family in 1st Mar Div ahead of and had to join the Army in 73. A very young, excited female Marine escorted her to the front of the room to cut the ceremonial cake! I had to settle for the Army. if anyone knows about a documentary about them please let me know? They definitely did not wear cute little feminine skirted waitress type uniforms. What I have learned about John Basilone has been influential on how I did my job as an NCO. Lena lost her husband within A few short months after their wedding . Regards,Doc, Robin: I second a lot of Pauls comments. BASILONE, in charge of 2 sections of heavy machine guns, fought valiantly to check the savage and determined assault. MY dad was attached to Geigers Marines with the US Army because he did water purification,ran a medical lab in addition to his ground duties. Vera, always treasure what John and Lena were, real icons and professionals. [4], Basilone enlisted in the United States Army in July 1934[4] and completed his three-year enlistment with service in the Philippines, where he was a champion boxer. As long as we have a Navy, there should be a fighting ship honoring his name! John was killed on Iwo Jima February 19, 1945 just seven months after marrying the love of his life and seven months before the allies would declare victory in the Pacific. I have had female cousins who were excellent NCOs and officers.in the Israeli army.If it was not for Marines like Lena Basilone and John Basilone the marines would not be the organization they are today. On the night of Oct. 24, 1942, on the island of Guadalcanal, a Japanese regiment of 3,000 troops attacked a handful of Marines, including Sergeant Basilone. She had made peace with her loss alone, without receiving any compassion from them. However, I was impressed by the story of Lena and John Basilone. Lena was definitely one of a kind. You got tired both physically and mentally quickly. Their work will not be forgotten by all who were in contact with them. The saddest days of my life were seeing Lenas normally fighting spirit wane after her surgery. We are a better world because of them Regards, Doc. Marine Corp veteran Korea Bongiovi Funeral Home, Raritan, NJ Courier News Sep. 7, 2022 Obituary of Donald Basilone Donald Basilone, 92, of Newport Richie, died August 13, 2022. We were both combat medics and had extra duties our units needed including water purification and distribution. 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. Basilone met his future wife, Lena Mae Riggi, who was a Sergeant in the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. BASILONE, at great risk of his life and in the face of continued enemy attack, battled his way through hostile lines with urgently needed shells for his gunners, thereby contributing in large measure to the virtual annihilation of a Japanese regiment. Lena was also very prominent in veterans affairs. She had her memories of John Basilone. . 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. Lena passed away in 1999 at age 86 and is buried at Riverside National Cemetery at plot 50 grave 5557 with the epitaph "wife of Sgt John Basilone USMC". The USS Basilone, was decommissioned in 1977. The Democrat did not seek re-election for . The Basilones are a happy loving couple for the eternity. The U.S. Navy named a destroyer after him in 1945, which Lena Mae christened. However, she decided to go and pray at church instead, since America had made the decision to enter the war the day before due to the devastating, ruthless Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and news of Japan's recent takeover of Shanghai, China . From what I have learned about her from you and others Lena was a very independent woman. John Basilone Annihilates a Japanese Regiment in Guadalcanal John Basilone killed at Iwo Jima - by Marc Lancaster - Substack Top 50 Nh High School Football Players, Kirklees Building Regulations, Tiedtke House Toledo, 3 Car Crash Morrinsville, Vanguard Wire Transfer, Articles J
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