Welcome to The Warchronicle Newsletter!

This week we have:

• Navy officer to media mogul (link)

• Marine Killed During Night Infantry School Exercise at Camp Pendleton (link)

•  The origins of the Marine Corps War Memorial! (link) 

🎖️ On this day in 1968

In this week's edition we pay tribute to the remarkable bravery and sacrifice of Marvin R. Young, a true hero who epitomized valor on the battlefield. On August 21, 1968, Young made the ultimate sacrifice while serving his country during the Vietnam War.

Young's unwavering dedication to duty and his extraordinary acts of valor earned him the esteemed Medal of Honor posthumously. His selfless actions on that fateful day saved countless lives and served as an enduring example of courage under fire.

Sergeant Marvin R. Young demonstrated exceptional valor and leadership in the face of overwhelming danger, earning him the Medal of Honor. While leading a reconnaissance mission, his unit was ambushed by a large North Vietnamese force. He fearlessly took command after the platoon leader was killed, orchestrating a defensive stand and personally engaging the enemy. Despite intense fire, he moved through the battlefield, rallying his men and providing covering fire for their retreat.

Even after sustaining severe injuries, including a critical head wound, he continued to fight, ensuring his squad's safe withdrawal. Young's indomitable courage and self-sacrifice remained unwavering until he was eventually overwhelmed by the enemy. His extraordinary actions reflect the highest ideals of military service, bringing honor to himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

Marvin R. Young's legacy lives on as a testament to the sacrifices made by our nation's servicemen and women. His actions remind us that heroism knows no age, and his story continues to inspire new generations to uphold the values of honor, duty, and courage. On this Medal of Honor Monday, we salute the memory of Marvin R. Young and express our deepest gratitude for his dedication and sacrifice. (link). 

💰 Navy Officer to Media Mogul: Montel Williams

Montel Brian Anthony Williams, born on July 3, 1956, in Baltimore, Maryland, is a remarkable individual who has navigated diverse arenas, from a distinguished military career to becoming a media sensation and successful entrepreneur.

Williams began his journey as a young man with a call to duty. Enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1974, he embarked on a path of service that would shape his character and lay the foundation for his future successes. Over the course of 22 years, he transitioned from an enlisted Marine to a commissioned officer. His roles ranged from cryptologic officer to intelligence officer, showcasing his adaptability and leadership within the military ranks.

After his honorable retirement from the military, Montel Williams made a seamless transition to the world of media. He rose to prominence as the host of "The Montel Williams Show," captivating audiences with his engaging and empathetic approach. The show, which aired from 1991 to 2008, addressed a spectrum of topics, touching lives with discussions on health, relationships, and societal issues.

However, Williams' talents extended beyond the screen. He ventured into entrepreneurship, founding the "Montel Media Group." This venture allowed him to produce a range of media content, amplifying his impact and further showcasing his versatility.

In addition to his media ventures, Williams is a published author, sharing insights on health, personal growth, and leadership. Beyond his business pursuits, he's an advocate and philanthropist, championing causes close to his heart. His dedication to veterans' concerns, multiple sclerosis awareness (as he was diagnosed with the condition in 1999), and education underscores his commitment to making a positive change in the world.

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Montel Williams' net worth is estimated at around $10 million. This financial success stands as a testament to his drive, adaptability, and dedication to excellence in all his endeavors.

Montel Williams' journey exemplifies the potential for individuals to channel their experiences, whether from military service or other paths, into successful and impactful careers. His story serves as an inspiration, reminding us that the journey from military service to media mogul is not only possible but can be exceptionally rewarding. (link)

🎖️ Military Technology

📰 In the news this week

News stories I’ve found interesting this week.

• Marine Killed During Night Infantry School Exercise at Camp Pendleton: A Marine died during a nighttime live-fire exercise at Camp Pendleton, California, on Thursday, the service said in a statement.

  The Marine, who was a student at the School of Infantry-West, was not named in the statement because, according to a Marine Corps spokesman, their next of kin were only notified Friday morning. (link)

• Navy relieves commanding officer of USS Howard: The Navy ousted the commanding officer of the guided-missile destroyer Howard on Saturday. Vice Adm. Karl Thomas, commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet, relieved Cmdr. Kenji Igawa from his duties “due to loss of confidence in his ability to command,” the Navy said in a statement Sunday. (link)

📷 Readers Stories

“My dad served in Korea. My uncle and I served in Vietnam. I was in a Marine CAP unit (Combine Action Platoon) and served from 1969 to 1973. My MOS was infantry rifleman. We had 8 to 12 Marines and a Navy Corpsman assigned to protect a village. We also had around 20 popular force men who were men that were either too young or too old to join their army. They set up two ambush sites that night and got a call that 20 to 30 Viet Cong were heading towards us. We got ready and hit them with all we had.

We began sweeping down the area and making sure that the enemy was dead. One Viet Cong got up from behind a rice paddy dike and threw two grenades over and behind me. I tried to shoot him but found out that I was out of ammo. Anyway, I hit the ground and my helmet fell off as I and as I put it back on the grenades went off. I got hit on my right arm and a piece of shrapnel hit my helmet. My helmet saved my life. I got on a Medivac and one month later I was back to the same unit.”

Richard.

If you have a picture or a story you’d like featured please send them into [email protected]

😮 Did you know? The origins of the Marine Corps War Memorial!

Standing tall and resolute in Arlington, Virginia, the Marine Corps War Memorial, often referred to as the Iwo Jima Memorial, is a poignant tribute to the valor, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment of the United States Marine Corps. This iconic monument, which has become an enduring symbol of American heroism, is a must-see testament to the indomitable spirit of those who serve in the armed forces.

The centerpiece of the memorial is a 32-foot bronze sculpture, an exact replica of the Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph captured by Joe Rosenthal during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. This powerful image depicts six Marines raising the American flag atop Mount Suribachi on the small but strategically vital island of Iwo Jima. The memorial serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Marines and all members of the U.S. armed forces throughout history.

Surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds, the Marine Corps War Memorial provides a serene and reflective space for visitors to pay their respects and contemplate the profound courage of those who have served. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a veteran, or simply someone who appreciates the sacrifices made for our freedom, a visit to this monument is an opportunity to connect with the heart of American military history.

The Marine Corps War Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to those who have answered the call of duty, a testament to the Marine Corps' core values of honor, courage, and commitment, and a symbol of the enduring strength of our nation. It reminds us that the spirit of service and sacrifice is a defining characteristic of the American people, one that continues to inspire us to strive for a better tomorrow. (Link)

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👉 Email at [email protected] if you have a story

See you next week.

Rob