Author: Cpl. Beddoe

Cpl. Beddoe, USMC ’81–’85 Marine Corps Blogger. Chronicling the legacy of the Corps. MAG-12 Iwakuni, MAG-16 Tustin MOS 3073 Computer Systems Operator POPASMOKE.COM Webmaster 1997-2023 @thesucklife @since1775
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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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Combat Aircrew Wings

The history of the Combat Aircrew wings for Marines is a rich and storied one, reflecting the…

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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…

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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…

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…

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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…

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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…

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Welcome to Camp Pendleton

So you have orders to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton? Nestled along the Southern California coast between…

Photo By: Cpl. Angelica I. Annastas
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USMC Drill Instructor: The Rewards & Challenges

Being a USMC drill instructor is a demanding and rewarding role, one that comes with a unique…

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Unlocking Hidden Discounts: A Marine’s Guide to Exclusive Benefits

Hey Marines and Marine Corps Veterans, When it comes to shopping, you might be surprised by the…

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Iwakuni MABS-12 Guard Duty 1982

Back in 1982, I was stationed at the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni in Japan, assigned to…

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VMA-242 BATS

It was late 1982 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni in Japan when the VMA(AW)-242 BATS Intruder…

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The Role of a Marine Sniper

The role of a Marine sniper is one of the most demanding and prestigious within the United…

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MCAS Iwakuni

Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, or MCAS Iwakuni, is a prominent United States Marine Corps air station…