Roll Call: Cpl. Wally Beddoe, 1981-1985

The Journey Begins

I joined mostly on a dare. College wasn’t gonna happen, and I wanted to see if I had what it took. No big dream, just needed a path. The Corps gave me one.

Lessons That Stick

Lead from the front, carry your load, and don’t make excuses. Marines don’t care about talk, just show up, do the job, and take care of your people.

Explaining The Suck

The Suck is the cold, the busted gear, the hurry-up-and-wait. It’s the pain, but also the pride in pushing through. That’s what my blog’s about… sharing the real stuff, not the Hollywood version.

What You Miss Most

The Marines. The mess, the routine, the jokes, the brotherhood. There’s nothing like it, and you know when it’s gone.

What Civilians Don’t Get

It’s not a job, it’s a whole different mindset. Most folks don’t see the weight we carry or the way it changes you. It sticks for life.

Brothers-in-Arms

Basilone was the real deal. Brave as hell, led from the front, and never backed down. That’s the kind of Marine you want in the fight.

Advice to a Recruit

Don’t try to figure it all out. Just take it one day at a time. Stick with your team, do what you’re told, and don’t quit. That’s how you get through.

Mental Health Perspective

It’s getting better, but there’s still work to do. Mental health needs to be treated like any other injury. No shame in speaking up. We all hit walls.

Marine Pride Moment

Leading the parade in dress blues in Meridian was a proud one. Represented the Corps that day, and that meant a lot.

Duty Stations and Units

Boot at MCRD San Diego in ’81. Then Aviation Supply School at NAS Meridian. Spent a year with MAG-12 in Iwakuni, then finished up with MAG-16 at MCAS Tustin. EAS’d in ’85.

Favorite USMC Movies

Full Metal Jacket, Heartbreak Ridge, Sands of Iwo Jima, The Pacific, Taking Chance.

Final Words

Being a Marine’s something that never really leaves you. I’m proud to have worn the uniform and walked alongside the ones who did. It’s about showing up, having your brother’s back, and never forgetting where you came from. Semper Fi.