Murphy’s Law of When to Drink
November 18th, 2009 by Jack Orth | FLASHBACKS | | 0 Comments
The Gunny
Webgear Jacket
There was a real chill in the air the other morning, and Trigger seemed to have more pep than usual. Like a Marine waiting for the slopchute to open, he pawed at the hatch at 0500, and was ready to run an extra-long patrol. Put on my tough-as-nails Leatherneck Square Webgear Jacket with the embroidered modern EGA and Marines in flat black and set off in style.
Went through the hatch, and was greeted by a chill that made you want to move out on the double .. and we did! Pulled down the parka-style hood a click .. and had a “flashback”!
It’s not supposed to be cold at Parris Island in November, but it sure was in 1950. Snapping in at the rifle range is no bed of roses, especially when it’s cold. The rifle range instructors, along with our D.I.’s, were their usual caring selves. They constantly reminded us in no uncertain terms that “Luke the Gook” didn’t care if it was 20 below zero when we got to Korea, he’d still be game for putting a round between our horns at any time! This, of course, was a pleasant thought, especially with Thanksgiving a few days away. Naturally they were right, as many of us found out down the road when going to Korea.
When a young Marine is away from his family on Thanksgiving, it’s sort of like your girlfriend telling you she’s been invited over to Jimmy Jones house for turkey dinner! Jimmy is the high school football captain, and you’re at Parris Island being called every name in the book .. and then some! But, a full-blown turkey dinner in the mess hall at the range will take the sting away for the 20 minutes or so you get to finish the feast!
Our platoon was in formation before heading to the chow hall, and one of our D.I.’s decided to set the stage for our holiday meal!
“If you maggots were at home in your warm quarters, you just might be allowed a sip of wine at the family table.” Then he stood eyeball to eyeball with a boot named Murphy. “Murphy, being Irish, you just might have a sip of the devil’s brew at times. Do you drink, maggot?!”
“Sir! Only when I’m alone or with somebody, Sir!”
The D.I. screamed at Murphy, and told him to report to his “house” after chow. Murphy made our Thanksgiving a great one .. he had stood his ground, and added great humor to the day.
I hope Murphy is alive and well this Thanksgiving, and isn’t alone. He should be surrounded by family. I also hope he tells about his great reply to a D.I. at Parris Island .. and ya know, I’ll bet the D.I.s from our platoon remember that wonderful comeback by Murphy, and laugh like hell every Thanksgiving!
Whatever Mess Hall you’re visiting this year for turkey day … ENJOY!
Semper Fi ….. The Gunny
