Another member of the greatest generation passes

[imarangemaster]

This is only slightly off topic, considering the threads here about that wonderful generation that produced and carried the M1 Carbine.

Another member of that generation, Sgt. Joe Molloy, USMC, who fought his way across the Pacific with the 6th Marine Division as a tanker and rifleman, passed away shortly after his 89th birthday, last Saturday. He has joined his older brother (my father), who did the same in the Army (on Iwo Jima, Saipan, and Okinawa) now protecting the streets of Heaven. Their younger brother Bill, who was in the same USMC tank unit as Joe, is still with us.

I have spent most of my 57 years in awe of this selfless generation and their accomplishments. They never bragged or boasted, and made light of their sacrifices and experiences, simply saying they just did their duty. Somehow even my 5 years military and 20 years law enforcement don't measure up to the long shadow they cast. These men will be missed.

By the way, all three of these "ordinary heroes" carried the M1 carbine at some point in the war. That was all my dad every carried. Maybe that Is why I have such a practical affinity for them.

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[zertouche]

Best wishes. Thanks for the post.

[imarangemaster]

The funeral today was befitting this proud Leatherneck. The Marine Corps League and our American Legion Post performed the graveside ceremony with full military honors. 21 gun salute, Taps, the Marine Corps hymn, and the flag presented to my Aunt. In the words of his son, also a Marine. " they will find the streets of Heaven guarded by United States Marines.."

Semper Fi, Sgt. Joe. May God hold you in the hollow of his hand for all eternity.

[imarangemaster]

PS, as I rendered the appropriate military hand salute after the command "Present Arms" and during Taps, I noticed not just a few others doing the same. That is not surprising though, as we veterans are very common in this little Heartland farm town. The local restaurant "Fran and Marilyn's has several walls plastered with red white and blue paper stars with the names of those local men and women who are, and have served. There are literally hundreds of stars. Patriotism is a long held tradition here, and is still alive and well.

[Gibbs505]

God bless and God speed.

[neal455]

Best wishes from England

[gary]

You just put a tear in my eye my dad also was a WW11 Combat Vet he passed August 11 2005 To the Greatest Generation Ever... my prayers are with you.... God Bless All Are Service Men And Women Everwhere