Author: Cpl. Wally Beddoe

Cpl, USMC 1981-1985 @thesucklife
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The Marines Don’t Want You!

That’s right. The Marines don’t want you. Not if you’re joining for the wrong reasons. You see, the Marine Corps isn’t just another job. It’s…

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Marine Corps Guide to Laughing Through the BS

In the Marine Corps, it’s often the eye-rolling moments that turn into laughter, especially when we’re handed tasks that seem completely pointless. More often than…

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Base Rankings: Where Marines Want to Be and Why

Below are the Marine Corps Bases and Air Stations sorted by their popularity with Marines who have been stationed there. These ratings reflect various factors…

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Tattooed Pride: Marine Corps Edition

Tattoos have long been a significant part of Marine Corps culture, symbolizing personal pride, unit loyalty, and the shared experiences of those who serve. From…

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Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial – Facts

Honoring and Remembering As we reflect on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, let us honor and pay our deepest respects to all those whose names are…

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Force Design 2030: What You Need To Know

Force Design 2030 is a key initiative reshaping the U.S. Marine Corps to meet modern threats and challenges. Moving away from large-scale ground operations, the…

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Rules for Dating a Female Marine

So, you think you can handle dating a female Marine? If you’re up for the challenge, here are the rules of engagement. Rule #1: Respect…

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Marine Barracks Life: If you know, you know

Barracks life in the Marine Corps is like living in a madhouse run by a bunch of sleep-deprived, energy drink-fueled frat brothers, except these guys…

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Embracing The Suck: Introducing The Suck Life

Welcome to the new chapter of our journey, a journey that’s been honed, tested, and forged in the fires of what every Marine knows as…

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Ode to the U.S. Armed Forces

In ranks of valor, side by side, We stand as one, with fierce pride. From land to sea and skies above, We’re bound by duty,…

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Could Six Modern-Day Marines Have Saved the Alamo?

The Battle of the Alamo remains one of the most poignant episodes in American history, a story of valor and sacrifice where a small group…

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What Sets Marine Corps Pride Apart

The pride of Marine Corps veterans stands out as a defining trait, setting them apart from veterans of other branches of the United States Armed…

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The Boxer Who Tried to Be a Marine: Bowe’s Story

Riddick Bowe, the former heavyweight boxing champion, made headlines in December 1997 when he enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve. Known for his prowess in…

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Marine Corps Boot Camp Attrition Rates and Reasons Behind Them

Marine Corps boot camp is notorious for its rigorous training and high standards, and these factors contribute significantly to its attrition rates. To understand the…

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Marine Corps Camaraderie: Brotherhood That Lasts a Lifetime

The Marine Corps is renowned for its unyielding discipline, rigorous training, and unwavering dedication to duty. But beyond the battlefield and the drill field lies…

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Marine Corps: Essential, Not Disbandable

In discussions about defense spending, some have suggested that disbanding the Marine Corps could be an effective way to reduce costs. For those weighing such…

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Why Marines Fight and Laugh Together

As a Marine Corps veteran, I’ve spent countless hours reflecting on the indelible camaraderie and unwavering spirit that define our ranks. The grueling demands of…

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Why Every CEO Needs a Marine on Their Team

In the world of business, CEOs are always on the lookout for top talent, individuals who can drive their companies forward, tackle challenges head-on, and…

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The Marine Advantage in Corporate Leadership

Transitioning from military service to the corporate world can be challenging, yet Marine veterans offer a distinct advantage in leadership roles. While they navigate differences…

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How to Verify If Someone Was Actually in the Marine Corps

When someone claims to have served in the Marine Corps, it’s important to verify their claim to ensure authenticity. The Marine Corps is known for…

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20 Celebrities You Never Knew Were Marines

20 Celebrities You Never Knew Were Marines The United States Marine Corps is known for its rigorous training and unwavering commitment to duty. It’s a…

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USMC Helicopter Crew Chief, MV-22 Osprey

Being a helicopter crew chief in the Marine Corps, particularly on an MV-22 Osprey, is an incredibly demanding yet rewarding role that requires a high…

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What Marines Miss Most

Reflecting on the lives of Marine Corps veterans, one realizes that their journey doesn’t end with their discharge papers. Their experiences, lessons, and bonds created…

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Marble Mountain Air Facility: A Glimpse into a Vietnam War Marine Base

Nestled in the scenic landscape of Vietnam’s Da Nang Province, Marble Mountain Air Facility (MMAF) stands as a testament to a turbulent period in history….

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Hey Hollywood, Get Those Uniforms Right!

When it comes to portraying Marines in TV shows and movies, Hollywood often takes creative liberties with their uniforms and grooming standards. While this can…

Photo By: Lance Cpl, Angelica I. Annastas
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Your First 48 Hours at Boot Camp (MCRD)

10 Things Marine Corps Recruiters Don’t Want You to Know About Your First 48 Hours at Boot Camp So… You’ve decided to take the plunge…

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Who Might Not Thrive in the Marine Corps?

A Candid Look at the Traits That Matter Joining the United States Marine Corps is a big deal. It’s not just a job, it’s a…

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God Bless Nurse Duffy

by Gordon “Bos” Boswell, 1st Force Recon, Vietnam ’69-’71 Nurse Duffy’s was the first face I saw when I came around after being wounded in…

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What is a Brother?

by A.J. WelchOct ’95 as shared by Gordon “Bos” Boswell I met a man the other night He really took me to task What’s this…

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A Dog Named Point

by Gordon “Bos” Boswell “Dog” entered my life in trade for an SKS with a 101st Airborne Army Sergeant rotating back to the World. We…

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Combat Aircrew Wings

The history of the Combat Aircrew wings for Marines is a rich and storied one, reflecting the bravery, dedication, and expertise of Marine aviators and…

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Christmas in the ‘Nam Stories

This week, I lost a dear friend, Gordon ‘Bos’ Boswell, 1st Force Recon, Vietnam. One of the posts on Bos’ blog was particularly special: a…

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RTB: Gordon “Bos” Boswell: A Tribute to a True Marine and Friend

I first met Gordon “Bos” Boswell back in the pioneer days of the internet, around 1996, when I was running a website called The Marine…

SgtMaj Wilbur Bestwick
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Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps

The rank of Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps holds a distinguished place in the annals of military history, emblematic of leadership, dedication, and an…

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Marine Corps Rank Structure

Alright, grab your cover and hold onto your crayons! Whether you’re a salty devil or a boot fresh off the bus from MCRD, this rank…

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Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. – Ensuring Authenticity in Comedy

When it comes to portraying military life on television, authenticity can make a significant difference in the show’s reception and credibility. “Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.” masterfully…