The Lucky Bros’ Promise: Never Forgetting Jimmy Moriarty

Marines, Corpsmen, & Others, I want to share a really special video with you. It’s from my good friend Norm “Frenchy” LaFontaine, and it tells an incredible story about brotherhood, loss, and remembrance that’s very close to my heart. It centers around another Marine buddy Jim Moriarty, who served with Frenchy in Vietnam, and Jim’s remarkable son Jimmy.

Frenchy starts by sharing how he and Jim bonded during their Vietnam service, including this almost unbelievable story about Jim accidentally shooting his own helicopter’s tail, which earned him the nickname “Black Ace.” But what makes this story so powerful is how it spans generations, following Jim’s son Jimmy, who grew up to become an extraordinary Green Beret. Despite his dad being a die-hard Marine, Jimmy chose the Army and excelled in every possible way, becoming a combat swimmer, paratrooper, and learning Farsi. He was truly exceptional, just like his father.

The story takes a heartbreaking turn when Jimmy and two other Green Berets were killed by an infiltrator while serving as unarmed advisors in Jordan. The way Frenchy tells this part is particularly moving because you can hear how deeply it affected not just Jim, but the entire military community. What makes this video so special is how it shows the ripple effects of such a loss, and how communities come together to remember their fallen heroes.

The video culminates with something really beautiful, Frenchy and his breakfast club of veterans (they call themselves the “Lucky Bros.” because they’re just lucky to be around for breakfast these days) are planning this touching tribute for Jim. They’re creating a special plaque and organizing a video call where they can present it to Jim and let him know that Jimmy’s sacrifice hasn’t been forgotten. It’s exactly the kind of thing that makes these military bonds so special, they never forget one of their own.

I think this video really captures something unique about military service and the lifelong connections it creates. Through Frenchy’s storytelling, you get this rare glimpse into how veterans take care of each other, even decades after their service, and how they make sure the next generation’s sacrifices are remembered too. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s a powerful reminder of the true cost of service and the enduring strength of military brotherhood.