From the Commandant:

The final date for Toys for Tots pickups has come and we are wrapping up the campaign for this year.  Any donations that are picked up from this point on will be stored for delivery next year.  Donors can be assured that their efforts will still make it to children in need.  Although our manpower numbers have been reduced, the detachment has continued to show spirit and motivation that surpasses expectations.  You are to be commended on the effort and time that you have put in to help those in need.  You once took an oath to protect and serve and you have proven to be as good as your word.  Semper Fi, Marines.  I hope that you find joy and comfort in your holidays.

Although we seek the joy of the season, we are saddened to acknowledge the recent passing of George MacGillivray.  George served in the Corps in the Vietnam era and went on to complete a long career as a Newton Firefighter.   The detachment extends condolences to the MacGillivray family for their loss.    

We will be continuing meetings in the new year and encourage all to attend and participate.  Since 2000, the Metrowest Detachment has an exceptional record of serving the community and providing support to veterans' causes.  You can be part of this.  Your input and ideas are welcome.

Have an excellent holiday season and a happy new year.

Semper Fi,

Mac.

 From the Commandant:

I extend the best wishes of the season to all on behalf of the detachment.  Hopefully, an enjoyable Thanksgiving was had by everyone.  As Marines, each of us has contributed to the success of this country that offers so much to all.  Perhaps you faced the challenge of combat or you served in a time of peace.  Either way, you were always an order away from going into harm' s way.  You have earned the title of Marine and it cannot be taken away.

Since 1947, Marines have taken on the mission of working to be sure that no child faces Christmas without presents.  The Toys for Tots Program has launched for 2023 and will be active until 9 December.  This is a tight window to collect and deliver donated toys.  The logistics of collecting, processing and delivering the volume of toys that are needed are challenging but not insurmountable.  Using the same energy that got you through the obstacle course and the drill field at Parris Island or San Diego, you will be able to coordinate, pick up, and deliver the needed toys in the established timeframe.  Collections that miss the deadline will be warehoused for delivery next year.  Much of your Marine Corps training has had harsh outcomes but this is one mission that can show that Marines contribute to peace also.  Questions on Toys for Tots can be directed to 508-877-5255 or judy5mc@yahoo.com.  The Metrowest Detachment has always been a leader in this effort and I have every expectation that this year will be the same.

Interest in joining the detachment is always welcome.  If you know of an honorably discharged Marine, FMF Corpsman, or FMF Chaplain, you are encouraged to bring them to a meeting or to have them contact one of the detachment officers.  Others who have interest in the welfare and mission of the Marine Corps can be encouraged to enroll for Associate membership.  As an organization, we offer many opportunities to contribute to the community in many ways.  Be open to approaching potential members.

The next meeting is scheduled for December 19 at 7:00 PM at the Natick AMVETS building at 1 Superior Drive in Natick.  We look forward to seeing you there.

ei

From the Commandant:

Marines, 

As we approach the celebration of the Marine Corps birthday, we are proud to share the annual birthday message from the current Commandant of the Marine Corps and General Lejeune, who defined the standards for the birthday celebration.  Each of us shares in the legacy that has been provided over 248 years of history and sacrifice.  Whether you served in war or peace, you earned the right to wear the Eagle Globe and Anchor and to call yourself Marine. We are the few and the proud.  

Happy Birthday Marines,

Mac

itle: Marine Corps Birthday Message

Category: Marine Corps Order No. 47 (Series 1921)

Author/Presenter: Major General John A Lejeune, USMC Commandant of the Marine Corps

Date: 1 November 1921

---

759. The following will be read to the command on the 10th of November, 1921, and hereafter on the 10th of November of every year. Should the order not be received by the 10th of November, 1921, it will be read upon receipt.

(1) On November 10, 1775, a Corps of Marines was created by a resolution of Continental Congress. Since that date many thousand men have borne the name "Marine". In memory of them it is fitting that we who are Marines should commemorate the birthday of our corps by calling to mind the glories of its long and illustrious history.

(2) The record of our corps is one which will bear comparison with that of the most famous military organizations in the world's history. During 90 of the 146 years of its existence the Marine Corps has been in action against the Nation's foes. From the Battle of Trenton to the Argonne, Marines have won foremost honors in war, and in the long eras of tranquility at home, generation after generation of Marines have grown gray in war in both hemispheres and in every corner of the seven seas, that our country and its citizens might enjoy peace and security.

(3) In every battle and skirmish since the birth of our corps, Marines have acquitted themselves with the greatest distinction, winning new honors on each occasion until the term "Marine" has come to signify all that is highest in military efficiency and soldierly virtue.

(4) This high name of distinction and soldierly repute we who are Marines today have received from those who preceded us in the corps. With it we have also received from them the eternal spirit which has animated our corps from generation to generation and has been the distinguishing mark of the Marines in every age. So long as that spirit continues to flourish Marines will be found equal to every emergency in the future as they have been in the past, and the men of our Nation will regard us as worthy successors to the long line of illustrious men who have served as "Soldiers of the Sea" since the founding of the Corps.

John A. Lejeune,
Major General Commandant

75705-21

10 November 2023

A MESSAGE FROM THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS

             For 248 years, Marines have earned a reputation as the most disciplined and lethal warfighters in the world. This legacy of honor, courage, and commitment passed on to us was paid for in sweat, blood, and sacrifice. From Belleau Wood to Inchon and Tarawa to Sangin, Marines have stepped forward to defend our Constitution when others either could not or would not. Our history is filled with heroes like Chief Warrant Officer 4 Hershel "Woody" Williams, Private First Class Hector Cafferata Jr., Sergeant Major Dan Daly, and thousands of others who performed acts of bravery which went unseen in the heat of battle. We stand on the shoulders of these Marines, and we owe it to them to earn our title "Marine" each and every day.

             Marines have given, and have been willing to give, their lives for Country and Corps in every fight our Nation has entered. Our actions turned back the tide of tyranny in Europe during the Great War, defeated fascism in Asia during World War II, fought for democracy in Korea and Vietnam, and offered the hope of self-determination in the Middle East. We go to war whenever our Nation calls, and in the interwar periods we train, we prepare, and we innovate. We have chosen a life of service and sacrifice — an honorable life that has meaning. We sacrifice so our fellow citizens don't have to, and we seek nothing in return but a chance to be first to fight. Most will never understand why we choose to attack when others do not, why we revel in being covered in mud, why we snap to attention when "The Marines' Hymn" is played, or why we say, "Ooh Rah." We understand it, and this message is for us, for the Marines.

             As Marines, we live on a war footing because someone must. This means that we ruthlessly adhere to our standards of excellence — Marine standards — as we know this will best prepare us for the wars of the future. Our high standards are a prerequisite of professional warfighting, and how we keep our honor clean in the cauldron of combat. They prepare us for the most difficult mission there is: fighting from and returning to the sea. Most importantly they shape our unique Marine culture which is respected at home and across the globe.

             Sergeant Major Ruiz and I are proud of all that you have done this past year to protect and enhance our reputation as America's best warriors. We hope you know that we will be with you every step of the way as we prepare for the fights ahead. We ask that every Marine - active, reserve, and veteran - honor the legacy of those who went before us by continuing to uphold our high standards.

             Protect your fellow Marines and our shared legacy. Happy Birthday Marines!

 

 MCL Detachment #1037Scuttlebutt for October:

We held the first meeting of this season last month.  We may be small in numbers but we are mighty in spirit.  Please continue to attend in the future and encourage other to join you.

Our paymaster, Mike Whalen is recovering from gall bladder surgery.  Best wishes, Mike. The paymaster report was accepted and voted by the body.

The Detachment is in compliance with the State and National MCL. We wish to thank Mike and Bernie Heaney, the State paymaster, for all their hard work with this matter.  Preserving our status as a nonprofit has many benefits.

We are waiting for the first semester grades of the four scholarship recipients.  As soon as we get them, we will send them each $1000 scholarship money.

As a reminder, all scholarships in the future are in house for Detachment members, their children and grandchildren.  The new in-house form will be posted on the website.  Contact Warren Griffin, Jim Hastings, or me with any questions

Rick Douglas discussed this year's Toys for Tots program.  Dates for pick up and box locations will be announced as soon as we get the information.  The detachment has typically been a strong contributor to this program.

We continue to encourage all to share their insights and ideas either through contacting the officers or attending a meeting.  

 

See you at the meeting October 17 at 7:00 PM

Semper Fi, 

Mac

 

From the Commandant:

As the summer winds down, I hope that everyone had a chance to relax and enjoy the season.  This is the time of year when scheduled activities resume and we look to getting back into routines.  I hope that you will include attending our detachment meetings.  These meetings typically occur on the third Tuesday of the month.  We meet at 7:00 PM at the Natick AMVETS Post at 1 Superior Drive in Natick.  On September 19, we will start discussing ideas for the upcoming year.  One activity will be the Marine Corps Birthday observation on November 10th.  This is an opportunity to participate in long established traditions that include a cake cutting and the messages from the current Commandant (if there is one in place at that time) and General Lejeune who established some of the traditions that we carry forward.  As Marines, FMF Corpsmen, and Chaplains, we share a connection that has continued for over 240 years.  Come and be part of putting together this year's celebration.

Although the detachment did meet during the summer, there was still activity.  Jim Hastings was central in organizing a burger burn that was conducted at Fort Devens during the 25th Marines drill weekend.  These are a great opportunity to see and interact with today's Marines.  The Marines enjoy the food and the funds received are used to defer the cost of the unit's Marine Corps Birthday Ball.  This is typical of the activities that we carry on as a detachment.  We thank Jim for his continued initiative and motivation is heading up this event.

Like many other veterans' organization, we are losing members to age, health, and other factors faster than we are bringing in new members.  This is not the first time that this cycle has come around and we anticipate that we will weather it this time.  This detachment has been active for 23 years and has a proud history of achievement and contributions to the community.  We will be happy to discuss membership with any interested parties.  New members can bring in ideas and energy to bring the detachment forward for a new phase of growth.  A good policy to consider is "Do ask, Do tell." When you meet a prospective member, do ask if they have considered joining, and do tell them that they are welcome to come to a meeting or to contact one of the detachment officers to discuss in more detail.  These are the initial points of contact:

Mac McEntegart: 1 508 877 5255; judy5mc@yahoo.com
Jim Hastings:  1 508 966 0364; snopymike@aol.com
Mike Whelan: whalen.michael@comcast.net; 1 508 435 2397
Steve Stefan; sixbits@gmail.com
Dave Barth: 1508 662 6578

We are saddened over the passing of Robert "Bo" Whalen, after lengthy medical issues.  Robert was the brother of Marine Mike Whalen to whom we extend our condolences.

Finally, we congratulate Marine Warren Griffin on his selection as National Commandant for the Marine Corps League.  Warren is long time Metrowest Detachment member who has previously held office at the detachment, state, and national level.  We are confident that Warren will be active in bringing the Marine Corps League forward in good shape.

Remember: Meeting Tuesday, September 19, 7:00PM at Natick AMVETS

 From the Commandant:

August 2023 Scuttlebutt:

Greetings, Marines:

As summer is drawing to a close, I hope that you have a good season and have been able to enjoy the actiivities of your choice.  The detachment will resume meetings on 19 September at 7:00 PM at the Natick Amvets Post on Superior Drive.  For those of you who like to plan ahead, meetings are held on the 3rd Tuesday of the month.  For the remainder of this year, meetings are scheduled on 17 October, 20 November, and 19 December.

Meetings are your time to be heard, to raise your ideas, and spend time with other Marines who share your motivation and interests.  As always, we encourage you to invite potential members.  We will be happy to answer questions from any interested persons.

The leadership team has worked to keep the detachment compliant with applcable recordkeeping and financial reporting requirement.  We are currently fully up to date and ready to proceed with business.

When dues are not paid on time, it can be considered a lapse in membership and require completion of a new membership form. Regular members must pay their dues on time. by Sept. 1 for 2024. Life membership eliminates the need to pay annual dues and is an easy action to take. Paul Toronski  and John Burke have recently become Life Members.  Please contact Mike Whelan with any questions.

Please send checks or cash to Mike Whalen

                                                     262 Wood St.

                                                    Hopkinton, MA 01748

Make checks out to:  Metrwest Detachment #1037 MCL.

Our sympathy goes out to the family of Marine John Donahue on his passing July27th.  John was one of the founding members of this Detachment. He resided in Natick where he worked as a police officer for 30 years.  Additionally. John was active in civic organizations and town agencies.  Rest in peace, Marine, your duty here is done.

For over twenty years, the Metrowest Detachment has been an active contributor to the MCL mission in Massachusetts.  Every contribution that you can make to our continued success will help.  We look forward seeing you at the next meeting.

Submitted by Mac

Semper Fi

 

From the Commandant:

Although the detachment does not meet during the summer months, we do still want you to be aware of activities and events that may be of interest to you.  Below are a number of upcoming events of which you may want to be aware:

The DAV is hosting a PACT ACT Information Social at the West Roxbury Elks on 20 July:

An information session on Toxic Exposure is being held in Taunton on 26 July:

The Veterans Voice Network and the City of Quincy are hosting a Music, Benefits, and Career Fest on 22 July

10:00 to 3:00

Pageant Field
1 Merrymount Parkway
Quincy, MA

www.VeteransVoiceNetwork.org

781 985 1551

email: gregbrasso@aol.com

On 4 August, VA Health Services is offering a Salute to Vietnam Veterans on the USS Constitution:

USS Constitution Salute to Vietnam Veterans! 

Friday, August 4th, 2023 Charlestown Navy Yard •

Limited space for Vietnam Era Veterans and a guest • 

Depart at 1000, Return at 12:30; special on-board ceremony •

Veterans Dockside Resource Fair prior to and after the cruise •

Reply to David.Hencke@va.gov; 617-275-6101 • Provide name, guest name, email/phone, Branch of Service/Unit /Ship, Rank (optional), Period of duty (if deployed to Vietnam) 

The VA will host a Veterans Expo at the VA Brockton Campus on 23 September:

These activities are provided by the VA and other organizations who wish to recognize your service and be sure that you have access to the benefits that you have earned.  Please share this information with your colleagues and friends.  We look forward to seeing you when meetings resume.

 A Message from the Detachment Leadership Team:

    As the first Marine Corps League Detachment to receive a charter in this century, we are proud to have 23 years of continued contribution to the local area and the Marine Corps.  Our committed core group of Marines has a noteworthy record of accomplishment that includes providing support to the 25th Marine Regiment at Fort Devens, funding a Young Marines unit in the Blackstone Valley, responding to the needs of the local veteran community, providing scholarships to area high school graduates, presenting a dignified presence to the funerals of departed Marines, and a host of other activities.  

    Marines, former Marines, FMF Corpsmen and Chaplains are encouraged to inquire about membership.  Family members and others who have interest in supporting the Marine Corps, the local veteran community, and the community in general are also encouraged to inquire about Associate Membership.  Although Associate Members do not vote, their energy and contributions are highly desired. 

Recent Meeting Notes:

Although the desired quorum was not reached in recent meetings, a number of business items have been decided.  For the immediate future, scholarships will be focused on children and grandchildren of detachment members.  Those who have interest in scholarship opportunities can inquire via the Scholarship Commitee members: John McEntegart; Jim Hastings; Warren Griffin Glen Chambliss 

A new slate of officers has been voted upon and sworn in.  These include: Mac McEntegart, Commandant; Jim Hastings: Junior Vice Commandant; Steve Stefan, Judge Advocate; Dave Barth, Sergeant at Arms; Mike Whelan, Paymaster.  The positions of Senior Vice Commandant, Chaplain, and Adjutant remain open and will be filled as possible.

The detachment keeps Warren Griffin and his spouse Cheryl in our thoughts and prayers as they deal with her illness.  We also keep the Jolley family in mind with the passing of Ed Jolley Jr., son of ast Commandant, Ed Jolley.

Please note that detachment meetings are on the third Tuesday of the month at 7:00 PM. at the Natick AMVETS at 1 Superior Drive in Natick.  Members and interested parties are encouraged to attend.

 January Meeting Notes:

    

The January Detachment meeting was conducted as scheduled.  Roll call of officers was conducted.  The report of the Paymaster was read.  After brief discussion and questions, the Paymaster report was accepted by vote.

New Business:

A supply of ammunition for the detachment's ceremonial rifles had been ordered and has been received.  Marine McEntegart has been the custodian of these rifles since their acquisition and has handled the administration of acquiring ammunition which is provided through a government source.  The rifles are used in firing salutes at funerals and other events. 

An update on the detachment scholarship program was provided by Adjutant Warren Griffin.  Scholarships will be offered to graduating students from Framingham, Milford, Natick, Millis, and Dover/Sherborn.  

NOTE:   As the Iwo Jima Day Ceremony at the State House conflicts with our next meeting date, we will not meet during the month of February.

All detachment members are encouraged to attend the State House ceremony which begins at 11:00 AM on February 21.  The guest speaker is Lt General David Furness , the Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies, and Operations.

The Semper Fi award for this year will be given to General Gary Keefe.  Major General Keefe is currently assigned as the Adjutant General for the Massachusetts National Guard.

Herb Chambers, founder of the namesake automotive dealership will receive the Gung Ho Community Service Award to recognize his efforts to assist veterans' causes.

The normal meeting schedule will on the third Tuesday of March at 7:00 PM at the Natick AMVETS.