Posted by james rat burton on July 19, 2002 at 05:48:20:

i served with usnc field bands 1965-68 at mcrd san diego; marine barracks pearl & paris island; would like to say hello to bob christianson; mike rock henry horn joe benneshan; mike wallach cwo/capt black; art la pine chuck flory sam petrella and gunny beauperlant what ever happened to hin after the no blow ?????? 

In reply to: James Burton

Semper Fi James. Ive heard of Capt. Black and Gunny Beauperlant but I didn't know them. I was primarily on the West coast, Okinawa, and School of Music. (1969 thru 1976)

Semper Fi Marine! Don 

Posted by George Helmke on August 27, 2002 at 10:10:05:

I was in five bands during my four year enlistment. As of this writing I have found guys from four of these bands; however, I haven't been able to locate anyone I served with from the 3rd Marines Regimental Band at Middle Camp Fuji, Japan, from January 1955 through March of 1956. If any of you guys are out there, drop me a line. 

Posted by FRANK GREENWOOD on September 08, 2002 at 19:31:07:

LOOKING FOR ANYONE FROM PLATOON 3048 1968, PLUS PLATOON PICTURES OR PLATOON BOOKS. Another E-mail address is fgreen@gbis.com

Posted by Linn Davison on September 15, 2002 at 11:34:13:

Served with the Third MAW band at Opa Locka FL. near Miami 1955-1956. Any old timers around from that era? Have made contact with two members from that time frame and thats been 15 years ago. Would like to hear from old buddies, Linn aka "Fudd" 

Posted by Douglas Clark on September 23, 2002 at 10:24:20:

I served with the First Marine Divison Band and The First Marine Air Wing Band in DaNang from 1970 to 1971. Would like to here from any Marine who served with these Bands and also The First Marine Division Band Camp Pendelton Calif. from 1968 to 1972. These were two great bands filled with great Marines. Waitng to hear.... 

Posted by Jim Conroy on November 10, 2002 at 19:24:11:

Would like to hear from the marined I could not contact last year in our drive to get together at Camp Pendelton for our MCMA reunion last year.Looking forward to New Orleans. You guys that didn,t or couldn,t make it to Camp Pendelton last April, should try by hook or crook to get to
New Orleans this coming year. We have about 12 guys from the Toro Band of that era. Looking for more. Does anyone have any info on a trumpet player we called Bear, He came from MIssouri I believe. His name I believe was Jim Condin or Jim Condor, I can't remember exactly. I am having difficulty tracking him down. Any body with info please contact me doublebogey2@earthlink.net.Thanks. The site is looking great, Don!  

Posted by Jim Conroy on November 10, 2002 at 19:30:13:

In Reply to: El Toro Band, 1958-1962. Posted by Jim Conroy on November 10, 2002 at 19:24:11:

Would like to hear from the Marines I could not contact last year in our drive to get together at Camp Pendelton for our MCMA reunion last year.Looking forward to New Orleans. You guys that didn't or couldn't make it to Camp Pendelton last April, should try by hook or crook to get to
New Orleans this coming year. We have about 12 guys from the Toro Band of that era. Looking for more. Does anyone have any info on a trumpet player we called Bear, He came from MIssouri I believe. His name I believe was Jim Condin or Jim Condor, I can't remember exactly. I am having difficulty tracking him down. Any body with info please contact me doublebogey2@earthlink.net.Thanks. The site is looking great, Don! PS. Any body from the 1958-1962 El Toro Band, please, let us hear from you! 

Posted by Don Schaffer on December 24, 2002 at 20:43:58:

In Reply to: 3rd MAW Miami. Posted by Linn Davison on September 15, 2002 at 11:34:13:

Served with the Third MAW band at Opa Locka FL. near Miami 1955-1956. Any old timers around from that era? Have made contact with two members from that time frame and thats been 15 years ago. Would like to hear from old buddies, Linn aka "Fudd"
I have a friend that served there at that time. Sax & clarinet player name of Bob Humphrey. His email is BoniBob@enter.net You best start your email SUBJECT with UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS, or he may not open the letter. Just got his computer a little while back, and is afraid of getting a virus. Do you belong to the Marine Corps Musicians Association? Good reunions. Semper Fi, Don Schaffer. 

Posted by George Helmke on August 27, 2002 at 10:10:05:

I was in five bands during my four year enlistment. As of this writing I have found guys from four of these bands; however, I haven't been able to locate anyone I served with from the 3rd Marines Regimental Band at Middle Camp Fuji, Japan, from January 1955 through March of 1956. If any of you guys are out there, drop me a line.

George; I served with a Marine who was at Camp Fuji, I believe he told me that the band left Camp Fuji and went to Iwakuni. He was a talented musician, and a good guy, His name was Arnold Onley, but he went by the name of Ray. This guy could play anything, Piano, Flute, Bass, Drums, Heck of a musician. Does tht name ring a bell to you? Semper Fi Jim. 

Posted by Don Schaffer on December 24, 2002 at 20:43:58:

Served with the Third MAW band at Opa Locka FL. near Miami 1955-1956. Any old timers around from that era? Have made contact with two members from that time frame and thats been 15 years ago. Would like to hear from old buddies, Linn aka "Fudd"
I have a friend that served there at that time. Sax & clarinet player name of Bob Humphrey. His email is BoniBob@enter.net You best start your email SUBJECT with UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS, or he may not open the letter. Just got his computer a little while back, and is afraid of getting a virus. Do you belong to the Marine Corps Musicians Association? Good reunions. Semper Fi, Don Schaffer
Don: Thank you for your response. Were you ever stationed with me in Miami,Iwakuni, or Quantico?
Thinking about attending New Orleans. Semper Fi Linn 

Posted by Charles Seager on April 19, 2003 at 00:53:25:

Super website, Don. I remember you, from way back when. :-)
I enlisted in September 1965, went to the San Diego MCRD Band for a few months, then the 1stMarDiv Band from May 1966 to Apr 1969 (Chu Lai and Da Nang). I got out for nearly two years, then re-enlisted, went to San Diego, SOM, El Toro, Camp Courtney (Okinawa), New Orleans, SOM (again), and finally retired from Camp Pendleton.
After retiring, I picked up a B.S. (Computer Science), minored in Music and Math, and also received a Teaching Certification (Brigham Young University), and I am now teaching for DODDS at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan.
The last I heard, *years* ago, Whitney was a Major. I'm wondering what LaRue Ford and all the others are doing now.
Thanks again, Don, for an excellent website. 

In reply to: Charles Seager

Great hearing from ya! I to often wondered what became of Larue Ford. He was an awesome man and a great Marine! Whitney, I heard, was running a Military Academy of some sorts. If I could change things, I would have stayed and retired to. I have one more class to go for my Information Technology certification. Thanks for the complement on my web site. I am currently creating another for the USMC Field bands of former and current Marine Musicians. My son goes to Boot camp tomorrow at P I.

Semper fi Marine! Don 

Posted by Sgt Douglas Benoit on June 11, 2003 at 11:34:35:

1) The Iceland Change of Command, where there was so much fog, all the band personnel hung out in the Marine Corps Bar, enjoying the 4-hour dark hours, before sunrise at 4 a.m. And, the only Navy P3 the band had ever flown on....those Norhtern Lights were spectacular!
2) The Florida Change of Command gig in a hanger, where the temperature was so cold, the majority of the brass section had their mouthpieces stuck (quite well) to their lips, a couple players, whose lips were torn open and bleeding when they tried to pull their horns away!
3) The rehearsals in the band facility with no air conditioning, at around 101 degrees...with permission from the base commander to wear PT attire for rehearsals for three days!
4) The parades in the rain, and those parades where there was no Head Calls before the 5-mile march.
5) The tatoos

Anyone relate?

Doug Benoit 

Posted by Mike Bouffard on September 09, 2003 at 16:46:42:

In Reply to: Would like to here from members of the Band. Posted by Douglas Clark on September 23, 2002 at 10:24:20:

I served with the First Marine Divison Band and The First Marine Air Wing Band in DaNang from 1970 to 1971. Would like to here from any Marine who served with these Bands and also The First Marine Division Band Camp Pendelton Calif. from 1968 to 1972. These were two great bands filled with great Marines. Waitng to hear....

I served with the First MAW band in 1968 and 1969. Must have just missed you. Played trumpet for about the last 4 months led the dance band. Played with some great guys, Don Raymond, Pat Burch, JB Evans and the rest. They years have numbed the names but I can still see the faces. I'll have to tell you of the time during morning colors that Pat Burch and I gave Top Smith an ulcer. He was fit to be tied. Let me hear from you. 

Posted by Margaret Smith on October 14, 2003 at 14:22:15:

Would like assistance in retrieving the email extension for the 3rd Marine Air Wing. I am looking for an individual for which I have a name but unfortunately an incorrect email extension (@3maw.usmc.mil?)

Appreciate any help that you can offer. 

Posted by mike wallach on December 01, 2003 at 05:09:41:

In Reply to: Re: former bandsmen of usmc field bands. Posted by mike wallach on January 16, 2003 at 04:28:14:

i served with usnc field bands 1965-68 at mcrd san diego; marine barracks pearl. 

Posted by Sgt Walton on January 15, 2004 at 13:04:10:

Marine Band San Diego Link:

Webpage: http://www.mcrdsd.usmc.mil/Band/index.htm

Posted by Byron Smith on February 05, 2004 at 10:21:00:

was in the post band at Quantico, Va from 1948 to 1952 also from 1958 to 1962. Would like to know more about the assn Semper Fi

Posted by Bob Keller on February 13, 2004 at 21:48:00:

Hi Don: I very much enjoyed going through your site here. Very well done! I check in with the Marine Corps Musicians Assoc. from time to time. Have had many conversations with one of your board members, Bob Caro, re my dad. He (Robert E. Keller) was the Drum Major of the WWII 24th Regiment Band, 4th Marine Division (Roi-Namur, Tinian, Saipan, Iwo Jima). He made all four landings - was wounded on Iwo. I have some great photos of his band and even a video, made from a WWII recruiting film made by the USMC, showing the band marching at the San Diego Marine Corps base. The band cut a vinyl record in Dec. '43 (just before shipping out for Roi-Namur). If you go to your reunion in April, I believe Bob Caro plans to have copies available for all. Don, I hope I haven't bored you but thought you'd like some USMC musician history. My dad was the proudest Marine on this earth and he loved the music. They fought the good fight, too.
I'm Vietnam era like you. My dad talked me into joining the Navy - maybe he thought I'd be safer!! I ended up in riverine service - swift boats - Mekong Delta, VN and participated in some good action.
Bob Caro wants me to attend your reunion but I just can't get away (would very much love to meet you some day, though). Thanks for your MC story. You guys are the greatest!
Semper Fi,
Bob Keller
Sacramento, CA

Webpage: http://www.dccobra.com/keller.htm

In Reply to Bob Keller:

A huge Semper Fi to you Bob! I salute your courage and valor for braving the Nam in a gunboat down the Mekong!! The Navy and Marine Corps team is second to none!

Semper Fi Bob! Don

Posted by Tim Kimble on February 14, 2004 at 14:30:00:

1st MAW Band, Iwakuni, Japan 1964.
Base Band, 29 Palms, 1965.
Now living in Mission Viejo, CA.

Posted by Bruce Riggs on February 16, 2004 at 11:47:00:

Former Band member from 83, to 96, when I got off actice duty and went Force Recon in the reserves in Reno NV. Deployed to Iraq for the war Jan 03 with the 6th ESB from Portland Oregon and came home in June. Retired at the Marine Corps ball in Portland on 1 November 2003. 20 years 9 months.

Posted by: paul delong on 3/13/05

I knew a staff sgt tom cook while i was with the band at san diego the first halve of 1955 and i was wondering if that could be the same cwo tom cook that you mentioned in your article. i was one of the original members of the 3rd marine reg. band that was formed from members of the 3rd div band stationed at camp pendleton in 1953, under the direction of m/sgt bart larocca. the band went to keneohe bay hawaii and then after 28 days we went to camp fuji japan. I don't believe george helmke was one of the origianl menbers, but i think he may have been one of the replacements that came in later. would very much like to hear from him.i was one of the trombone players in the band. if you could give him my e-mail.

Posted by Kelly Allison on April 4, 2004 at 22:47:02

Well, fancy running into your website on the net. I
was in the San Diego Band from '75 to '77. Then Cherry Point from '77 to '81. "Corky" followed me there to show off his Captain's bars. Been doing the IT thing for over eighteen years. It provided me with pretty good income. Still making music. Check out my web sites.

Web pages: http://mcdixieland.com and http://nashccband.com

Posted by LCpl Zimmerman on April 8, 2004 at 18:34:01

I am currently serving with the Quantico Band. I am also the Historian for the public Affairs Office. We are currently trying to put together a videoaugraphy of the history of the Band here. If there is any Marines out there who have photos or information regarding the history of this band please email me at JCZ25@aol.com
Thanks and Semper Fi,

Posted by Kitti on Mon 7/26/2004 10:11 AM

Wow, an impressive web site. My son is a new recruit (7/12/04)and one of the reasons he joined
The Marines, is because he fell in love with one of the bands that came to his high school and played for their band class. He was a little disappointed when he found out that they had no opening for someone who played the sax.
Thank you and GOD BLESSES you all

please email me at tuffkitti2yahoo.com

Posted by dtrail on Thu 8/12/2004 11:35 PM

Looking for anyone that served with VMT-2. 1961-1966. Please email me at dtrail5750@wowway.com

Posted by Jablosser1@wmconnect.com on Wed 8/18/2004 6:53 PM

I have a 1942 WWII Marine Corp Baritone Horn for sale.
It was made for the Marine Corp by Martin and has USMC engraved on the bell above the Martin logo. The original case is included with USMC imprinted on the side. It has recently been checked out by a professional baritone player which stated it is in excellent condition, both appearance and playing. It is has 4 values and silver with brass inside bell. If interested please respond ASAP.

Thank you

Posted by David P. Higgins on Thu 9/2/2004 11:13 PM

I served with the band in San Diego from 64-late 65, went to DaNang with CWO Black and Flore, Bruce Wilder, Rock, Remariz, Nice to see this sight, will be at the reunion in San Diego in 2005, hoping to see anyone I know their.

Posted by GySgt Jim Corcoran on Sat 10/30/2004 10:01 AM

Retired in 82 and like you, loved my time in the Corps. I have to say, though, there were a few times things didn't appear to be all that rreat, at the time but I survived. One the sadest days of my time in the Corps was the closing of Marine Barracks, Philadelphia. At the time it was the "Oldest Post of the Corps", now it is 8th & I who can make that claim, until the closure of MB Phila., they were the second oldest. Well so long, for now. Semper Fi!

Posted by oneminx on Sun 11/28/2004 at 6:18 PM

I am looking for a Marine & his wife who was at MCLB Georgia in 1991 when I was. The marines name and rank was GySgt John Rhodes from there he went to TX somewhere. When he was in Ga he was the ast band director, he also played a horn. His mom and dad are in Ca I think. If any one can tell me where they are or if he is still in the corp I would appreaciate it. E-Mail me at oneminx@msn.com or ltlblkegl@msn.com. or you could just pass the emails along to them thanks so much and Semper Fi.

Posted by MSgt John J. Brosnahan on 12/5/2004 at 8:44 PM

Nice Web Site, Retired 1978, 5571 Drum and Bugle Corps Leader, As a SSgt Led the III MAF Drum & Bugle Corps- came down from 3rd Marine Div Band to replace Top Moran 1968-1969 had a great little D&B traveled all over NAM supporting CAG Marines, Was also Drill Master and Drum Master with the Commandants Own Drum & bugle Corps Marine Barracks 8th & I 1962-1968, Member 1st Marine Brigade Band Kaneohe Hawaii 1959 and FMF Pac D&B Team 1959-1961, Director/Drum Major 4th Marine Aircraft Wing Drum & Bugle Corps Glenview, IL and New Orleans 1972-1975, Retired from 1st DIV Band/D&B Camp Pendleton 1978. I tried logging onto the Marine Corps Musician's Association Web Site to join but apparently it's not working. Do you know if this group is active? Again great web site, take care and Semper Fi, John Brosnahan

Posted by john{doc} taschler on 2/2/2005 8:47 PM

I was in vetnam from 1961 to 1975
I was a combat corpman. I took care of my marines god bles them all

Posted by Andy Leonard (Cpl. USMC Field Bands)

Love your site. I was in the 1st MAW Band in Iwakuni Japan and my last duty station was MCRD San Diego under Lt."Corky Whitney" and Top Kelly, who you mentioned on your home page. Semper Fi

Web Page: www.techprostaging.com

Posted by Chris Benedict

Former Marine, served in the 2nd Marine Airwing Band at Cherry Pt. '91-'94

Posted by Charles Taliaferro on 3/31/2005 11:18 PM

You can retire your tattered, worn out and frayed American flags without any cost to you. Just send your flags to the Kitchen Table Gang Trust, 42922 Avenue 12, Madera, CA 93638-8866 and we will dispose of your flags in a proper and dignified manner with full honors and dignity pursuant to the United States Flag Code Section 8K (PL93-344). We veterans have been doing this for he past seven years. Our flag retirement ceremonies are held on Flag Day, June 14th each year and are conducted by an all volunteer U.S. Marine Corps Honor Guard led by GySgt. Dan Kelley USMC (Ret.). The Kitchen Table Gang also has a nationally recognized educational program for our young people and students, teaching them the history, traditions and respect for our national emblem.

Thank you very much,

Charles Taliaferro
ctaliaferro@kitchentablegang.org
THE KITCHEN TABLE GANG TRUST
http://www.kitchentablegang.org

Posted by K. Dorward on 5/13/05 at 5:12 am

Great Website! Did my thinkg w/the Wing Band 1978-1979.

Posted by Margaret Dial on 6/05/05 at 11:47 am

I would like to get in touch with my nephew Donald Hickman. I am proud of all you guys and gals. 6948 whitby, Garden City MI 48135 God Bless you All!!!

E-Mail: mdial@wowway.com

Posted by PFC CABRERA on 9/11/05 at 7:20 am

OOOORAHHH SGT MOTO PAGE!!! MCAS WX CAMPPENDLETON CA

E-Mail: DRMR@TMAIL.COM

Posted by Richard Brooks on 7/25/05 at 10:45 pm

Depot Band 1973-74 Great site Sgt. Don
from Motherworm

E-Mail: rbrooks@i29.net

Posted by Doug LaPoint on 11/4/05 at 6:59 pm

I was stationed in Okinawa from 1982 to 1984 with the Third Marine Amphibious Force Band.

It's funny how I can mostly only remember the good times now, though some of those memories are a little foggy due to whatever they replaced the booze with in the vodka and rum bottles in those bars on Gate 2 Street.

Check out my website dedicated to my time over in Okinawa with the III MAF Band.

Website: http://3mafband.lapoint.net/

Posted by Mike Haggett on 11/11/2005 at 15:07

Semper Fi my dog brother. send our thoughts to our bothers in harms way. Have a great holiday, and stay safe.

E-Mail: mhaggett@triad.rr.com

Posted by Ron Schreffler on 1/14/2006 at 17:17

I was in the 3rd MarDiv Band in Okinawa from 1976-1977. I served under the batons of 1st Lt. Jessie Owens Sunderland and GySgt Swingle.
From 1977-1979 I served in the 2nd MAW Band under the batons of a CWO and also Captain "Corky" Whitney. Our band played the opening ceremony for the Epcot Center, Fl., Indy 500 races, and were the back-up band for Bob Hope at the Ohio State Fair during my tour.
Still playing and teaching the Horn in F.

Semper Fi!
Sgt Ron Schreffler

Posted by Al "Speedy" Gonzalez on 1/16/2006 at 15:54 hours

I'm Al Gonzalez(Speedy) and was in the Marine corp from 67 to 71. I served with the 5th Divy Band in the latter part of 67 and most of 68. From there I was transfered to the Navy School of Music in Little Creek from Jan 69 to June 69. then I was reassigned to the 2nd Marine Air Wing Band at Cherry Point until June of 70. From there I received orders to West Pac and pulled a short term in Viet Nam with the 3rd Marine Amphibious Force . My last and best duty station was The 3rd Divy Band in Okinawa until June 71.( Man It was like dying and going to Heaven)
I would like to hear from anyone that remembers me at almar032001@yahoo.com . Steve Cseplo, Danantonio, Roardink, Morales, Keith Delke, Jimmy Simms, Avioli, Pete Snyder,Daral Ruh, just a few names I remember if you're looking in send me a line.
Al "Speedy" Gonzalez

Website: http://www.dccobra.com/speedy/

Posted by Jesse Sunderland on 3/29/2006 at 02:14

I'm Jesse Sunderland. I was in from '52 to '79. (20th century, that
is.) I served in all our field bands except 29 Palms...and I had orders to go there but they were changed!
I saw some familiar names on your website and would love to hear from all you guys.
I can give a lead on some of the guys who some of you are looking
for...just let me know who you're looking for.
I'm a member of our Marine Corps Musician's Association and can give out some info...like, we're having our reunion at Cherry Point on 25-29 April. 'Yaall come!
Hope to see you on the counter march...
Jesse.

E-Mail: Jesse Sunderland

Posted by: Denny Willis on 4/10/2006 8:54 PM

I served with the 2nd Div. Band for a very short time, then spent a year with the 29 Palms Base band in 66-67, then on to the 1st Div. Band in 67- 68 RVN. Alot of memories, some good, some not so good.

E-Mail: lincgetty@adelphia.net

Posted by: Ken Ford on 7/18/2006 6:08 PM

I went through boot camp in 1943 in Platoon 500. I would like to see a photo of what it looks like today. I served 3 years during WW2. I also would like to hear from any one from Platoon 500.
Kenneth Ford 136 S. Milton St.
Rensselaer,In. 47978

E-Mail: kbford@webtv.net

Posted by: GySgt (Retired)Laird Keith Miller on 9/19/2006 8:54 PM

I served 18 1/2 years of my career in the Corps in the Band Field. Alot of the names you mentioned I have heard in the past. Especially "Corky" Whitney. If you know how I can reach him I sure would appreciate it. Semper Fi. from one of the "Boys in the Band"
Keith Miller

E-Mail: gunnylkm@yahoo.com

Posted by: Rick Mason on 9/26/2006 8:16 PM

ILooking for marines of 3rd Mar Div Band Quang Tri HQ Co. 1969 Drummers and others. Also 3rd Mar Div Div.D&B Camp Carol 1968

E-Mail: rmason7@stny.rr.com

Post by: Paul Boardman at Sat 1/26/2008 2:36 AM

In looking at your boot camp page I couldn't help noticing Gunny Troy Hensley with your plt guide. Gunny Hensley was also my Plt Cmdr for Plt 3314 MCRD Oct 68. He was one hell of a marine. my brother who was a FO served with him in Nam and I heard about some of his heroics from him. He was definitly a major influence in my life and is part of the reason for the successes I enjoyed both in and out of the Corps. Does anyone know his whereabouts. Last I heard was he retired in the 80's and was living in the Oceanside area. I had no success in locating him though.
Semper Fi

E-Mail: Paul Boardman

Posted by: Jennifer (Hill) Eckhoff on Fri 4/25/2008 1:59 PM

I'm Jennifer (Hill) Eckhoff, (3rd MAW from 1983- 1987 - flute, vocals) and am looking for anyone else who was in the 3rd MAW at that time. I saw a few 3rd MAW people at the School of Music (Paul Bianchi, for one) when I was there for an Army school, but they're probably retired now. My husband Dan (3rd MAW 1983-1986 - trumpet) and I live in Minnesota, where we joined the 451st Army Band (reserve - it's actually good - really!)). I've heard a few stories about some of our friends from the 3rd MAW, but would like to connect. I believe Dan heard from Jolene Catron and Debbie Hogan. I met Jim Buckler's wife (National Guard) at an Army Band Leaders conference. Has anyone heard from Gunny Cseplo? I believe he's living in Ohio, but I'm not sure. We owe him a reply to a letter he sent shortly after I got out in '87. (I think Kirsten and Elizabeth are in NY.) Amazing how the years fly, but the memories seem as clear as yesterday. (Some are a little clearer than I'd like, but all in all, I'm proud to say I was (am!) a Marine.) Semper Fi jennifer.eckhoff@us.army.mil

E-Mail: Jennifer (Hill) Eckhoff

Posted by: John C.Kotruch on Fri 5/18/2008 12:16 AM

1MARDIV 01-06 1979
2nd MAW Band 10/79-05/81

E-Mail: John C. Kotruch

Posted by: Blake Denham on Wed 5/21/2008 1:52 PM

Parris Island, Platoon 1014 summer of 1969.

E-Mail: denhamjeans@gmail.com

Posted by: Chip Hancock on Wed 10/29/2008 1:31 PM

My Name is Chip Hancock. I was at the SOM in basic course when Steve Cseplo was in advanced. We became great friends, and served together in San Diego in 80-83. Last I spoke with Steve Cseplo, he was in Cincinnati and married with 3 daughters. he was working for the Post office. Top Kelly was just retiring from USMC when I arrived in San Diego. I spoke last night (28 )CT 08, with Herb day in Charleston south Caroline. Still doing well. They named the new band hall at the Citadel, after him. I spoke with Steve Schweitzer last night as well. We served at MCRD together. I am joining the MMA, Marine Musician Association. I hope to see the best friends I have ever known (Marines) at Parris island, this April (2009).
I served under Major Fellet (Corky had just left when I got there) I also served with George Fos, Greg Domasig, (unfortunately "Pendry" Findlater) SSGT White, . Gary beamon and I were in Parris Island together, then SOM, then San Diego. I was great friend with Ed Harris.. i ran into Ed years later at a School Music conference in GA. I believe he was at MCRD Parris Island then. I remember so many from the SOM ....Sandy Megas, Scott Johnson, Gunny Crone, Clyde Croswell, I studied with Mark Adams.
I was quite a maverick drummer at MCRD, back when I was 18-21 (when we all know everything).
For all marines, thanks for your service. God bless you all, and Semper Fi.
here is a link to my home page in case any one recognizes me or is interested.
Chip Hancock
Fort Oglethorpe, GA (near Chattanooga, TN)

E-Mail: ChipFunk@aol.com

Website: http://hometown.aol.com/ChipFunk/

Posted by: Linda Bartholow on Wed 11/22/2008 2:39 PM

My father, Roger Bartholow was a Drum Major with the team serving @ Parris Island, Quantico, El Toro, and Camp Smith. I was hoping to contact Wayne Brewster who was a member of the team in Camp Smith.

Thank you!

E-Mail: Linda Bartholow

Posted by: Amber Mendes on Dec. 2, 2008 at 4:50 AM

I just found your website and would like to post my contact information on your guestbook. My grandfather is Major Corky Whitney who was at one time the Marine Corps band conductor. I noticed that there are a few posts about trying to find him on the guestbook. I tried to add a comment with my information so he can be contacted by friends from his past by I was not able to for some reason. Could you please post my email and this message for me? I am sure many people would really like finding him.

Thank you so much,

Amber Mendes.
E-mail: ambermendes@comcast.net

Posted by: Ron Bowren on Dec. 4, 2008 at 7:59 PM

Hi Don,

I have been searching the net for old friends who I played with in the Marine Barracks Drum and Bugle Corp Yokosuka, Japan...and friends I knew in the FMF PAC Hawaii, and 8th and I Marine Barracks D&Bs...some of the guys made the rounds.

I played with the Yokosuka "Rainmakers" D&B under SSGT. Bill Cox back in 1956-58. I had been in the MP Company working town patrol and the main gate when the FMF PAC D&B paid the Barracks a visit in 1956, and blew us all away! SSGT. Bill Cox was playing snare drum for them then, and he stole the show. He inpressed the C/O so much that he was transefer to Yokosuka Marine Barracks to take over our Drum Corps. A few days after he took over the D&B he found out that I had played trumpet in my High School Band, next thing I knew he had me in the Head for an audition, after which I was transfered to the D&B. I have some old photos of the D&B from 1956-1958 if you could use them? I think I might have an old photo of the 3rd Marine Div. Band at Camp Gify Japan (around 1953-54) also if you want it.

Last night I found a website for FMF PAC D&B, but I could not make contact...today I can't find it with the same Google search info?

I also visited the 8th and I D&B website and found the names of a few old friends there, Vern Strieby, Richard Edinger. My friend Sgt. Epperson played there in 1958-59 but could not find his name on the roster. I visited the Barracks and the D&B back around 1962, and tarveled with them for a few gigs...they were so great I was ready to reinlist (ha ha) Too bad they have no way to dialogue with anyone on there site.

Let me know if you are interested in the photos, if so I will scan them into my computer and either email them to you, or burn them to a CD and mail it to you.

After my discahrge I played with the Detroit Edison Lamplights D&B, even took drum lessons from Bill Cox's old teacher, Frank Arsenault...I still have Frank's autographed record on rudimental drumming that he gave me. After that I played with the Harvey W. Seeds Miami Rebles. During those years I got to compete with a lot of the old senior corps like the Hawthorne Cabraleros, Skokie Indians, and the rest. I sure miss those days.

You can check me out at marines.togetherweserved.com just do a search for Bowren...I am still working on my profile info.

Semper Fi!
Ron Bowren
ron.bowren@gmail.com
309 Cottonwood Dr.
Modesto, CA 95356
209-571-0102
Website: http://dccobra.com/rBowren.htm

Posted by: Eric Roos on Dec. 11, 2008 at 3:43 PM

Caveats: NONE

Hi, I’m Eric Roos. I was a trumpet player in the MCRD San Diego band from 1980-1983. I was with Gary Beamon, Chip Hancock, Drum Major Findlater, Steve Schweitzer, Melissa Esche, Judy Fleming/Honjas, Gunny Cseplo, Gunny Fos, and Gunny Domasig, Capt/Major Fleet, Shane Henker, WO Robins, among others, of course. What a time it was. I learned a lot. I regret all the in-fighting that so many of us got caught up in. So much wasted energy. Still, we performed incredibly-well together. After four years of the Marine Corps, I went into Army infantry. Somewhere in there, during one of my trips to Panama, one of the scouts in my battalion drowned in the Chagres River. I went to the memorial service…and here, I bumped into Shane Henker who was escorting the bugler across the isthmus (SP ??). So, it was nice to see him. Also, on a trip to Korea, we stopped to refuel in Hawaii, and I bumped into the trumpet player Thomas. Finally, I marched in a parade, I guess in San Francisco…and bumped into the SOM faculty member who was supposed to teach me trumpet, Omdahl. What a small world. Retired in 2000. Came back to active duty in 2005 for two years to support the war. Every time I hear an Army band, I cringe: It just isn’t what I came to expect from a military band. I still play the trumpet when I can. Gary Beamon finally convinced me to get a different mouthpiece----and I wish I would have listened to him two decades ago !!!!!

Anyway, I admire Marine bands folks for what they have to endure. I wish you all luck. Semper Fi !!!

Eric P. Roos

Program Analyst, U.S. Army Wounded Warrior (AW2) Program

Work: 703-325-0583

Fax: 703-325-1516

E-Mail: eric.roos@us.army.mil

Hi Don,

I was a grunt attached to the 1st MD band after they lost 3 members in Feb 1969. Myself and about 20 grunts various MOS's, arrived a few weeks after the attack and we were split in two squads with the band to pull duty on Alpha Line Hill 327. I have a site and I am trying to get names of some of the band members to put with the pictures.

http://rememberingvietnam.blogspot.com/

Don Cooper
L/Cpl 0331 1968-1970
Semper fi

E-Mail: scoop748@yahoo.com

Posted by: CPL Moshier, James E. on Jan. 27, 2009 at 3:41 PM

Hello,

I was a 5563 from 1958-1962. Parris Island Band Nov. '58 to Nov. '59, Marine Barracks Band, Pearl Harbor, Nov. '59 to Nov. '61, and MCAS Cherry Point, Nov. '61 to Aug. '62.

I had the honor and privilege of serving with then Sgt. Whitney in the PI Band. We are still in touch today. He retired a Major, and lives in Hayden, Id. I have his address and phone number. He does not currently have e-mail.

I also had the honor and privilege of serving with then M/Sgt. Daniel M. Oeser, both in the PI Band, and in the Pearl Harbor Band. I have been in touch with his second wife, Barbara. Did you know him? A legend. And, Charles R. Jimerson at Pearl.

I also had the honor and privilege of serving with then Cpl. Ronald C. Biggs in the Cherry Point Band. Ron and I were good friends. He visited me in 1970, and I last spoke with him when he was CWO Biggs, Band Officer at Cherry Point.

Over the years, I have tried to locate him, to no avail. I'm asking for your help.

I belong to the MCMA, and I plan on attending the reunion at PI this April.

Respectfully,

Moshier, Cpl (E-4)
E-Mail: drummerboy1@citlink.net

Posted by: kashelton@mindspring.com on Feb.28, 2009 at 12:39 PM

I was with the El Toro band around '84-'85, then was transferred to Marine Barracks Hawaii 'til the end of '88. You never have friends like that again in your life. I miss you all.

E-Mail: kashelton@mindspring.com

Posted by: CW3 Glenn R. Moore on Mar. 1, 2009 at 10:04 AM

Greetings Sgt. Don Cobrea:

I bid you greeting from snowy Atlanta on this Sunday evening. I hope this note finds you well.

The reason for my inquiry is to solicit interest from my fellow retired service musicians to provide an opportunity for those now living in GA, and realistically, probably within a 45 - 60 miles radius of metro Atlanta, to play with a service band to perform community concerts, a few military ceremonies, and other patriotic events throughout the area.

I am a retired (field, rather Washington, D.C. area) Army Band First Sergeant, who also spent about 5 years at the Armed Forces School of Music.

I was recently appointed as the Executive Officer and Associate Bandmaster for the Georgia State Defense Force Band located in Atlanta, GA. Although, it more closely aligns itself with the Army hierarchy, it is basically a volunteer community band that attires itself in an Army uniform instead of concert black. Unlike the Army active and reserve/national guard component bands, we are an unarmed force and are not subject to deployments, or obligatory military missions. We strictly focus on the musical aspects of service to our fellow Defense Force soldiers and the community at large.

I would appreciate you socializing this playing opportunity amongst your fellow musician retirees who now live in the great state of Georgia, to seek potential interest levels for personally participating. I would also appreciate you encouraging them to further socialize this opportunity amongst colleagues who desire to play with a quality musical organization.

We have a website that provides a good bit of information: http://www.gasdf.com/band/index.htm, but I would be happy to take questions from all inquirers. Feel free to provide my email contact information.

Warm regards,

Glenn
G. R. Moore
CW3, GSDF
Executive Officer/Associate Bandmaster
Georgia State Defense Force Band

E-Mail: cwo.gsdfband@gmail.com

Posted by: Gary Phelps on Wed 3/4/2009 10:14 AM

el toro 10-58 to 07-59 h&hs37supply bld. 313

E-Mail: GDP7474@comcast.net

Posted by: Teddy Holdren on Thur 3/26/2009 11:28 AM

Served in the Marine Band 1972 to 1978. Stationed at MCRD
San Diego, 3rd Mar Div(Camp Courtney) back to MCRD San Diego and 3rd MAW, Iwakuni Ja.

E-Mail: elizabeth_holdren@yahoo.com

Posted by: Dr. Arnie Kosmatka on Thur 3/26/2009 8:46 PM

I was in the USMC Drum and Bugle Team at Camp H.M. Smith from Sept.1963 to April 1966. I played 3rd SOP and traveled all over the pacific rim and up and down the west coast. Look and the picture from 1964 of many of us in Hawaii. I am the one bending over in the middle With the red glasses. Aloha, Arnie 2020956/5591

General Counselor -- Student Services
International Counselor
Professor -- Behavioral Science
Crafton Hills College
11711 Sand Canyon Road,
Yucaipa, CA 92399
909-389-3285
“Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety” Proverbs 24-6

E-Mail: akosmatk@sbccd.cc.ca.us

Posted by: Ron Walker on June 15, 2009 9:51 PM

Served 4 years, June '60 to June '64. Trombonist with 2nd Div Band, 1st Brigade Kaneohe Bay, and El Toro. Went to Parris Island with John Lee, who finished up some 30 years later as Drum Major of the President's Own. Played under CWO Buchierri (sp) at LeJeune, Gunny Griswold at Kaneohe Bay, and Buchierri again at El Toro. Other names I remember are Howard Guy, Ron Kelly, Paul Lagos, Frank Emro, Chuck Dabney, Bill Schimpf, Sam Hiserman, Leo Weagle, Stu Albaugh, Cossie Chandler, Louis Massey, Ray Onley, Bob (?) Scifres. Have a picture of the '64 Rose Bowl Band, and a couple of one of Gunny Griswold's productions at the base theater at Kaneohe.

Ron Walker

E-Mail: walker957955@bellsouth.net

Posted by: John E. Nieuwenhuis on June 25, 2009 11:54 AM

Don,

So I'm sitting at my desk and I suddenly get the urge to Google "3rd.Marine Division Band". Up comes your website showing the band from 72-73 and there I am! Thanks for keeping the memory alive!

Semper FI!!

Dutch
(AKA the worst sax player the U.S.M.C. has ever had to tolerate)

E-Mail: john@vansdelivery.com

Posted by: Mike Wallach on July 28, 2009 6:08 PM

Marine Band camp Le Jeune 64-65, Marine Barracks Pearl Harbor 65-67. Also was NCOIC of the pool there. Darned if I can remember anyone's name except a few..Rat Burton, Al Drury, Henry Horn. Everyone above Cpl. I've blacked out!

E-Mail: mikewallach@comcast.net

Posted by: B. Ivy Stiles on September 1, 2009 9:15 AM

I served a few years after you - 1977-81. I was a part of the 1 MAW Band in 1978 when we combined with the 3rd Mar Div Band to form the III MAF Band in Okinawa. I had Capt. Day at the School of Music, I agree, a GREAT Marine!

E-Mail: B. Ivy Stiles

Posted by: brenda on September 1, 2009 6:53 PM

hello, could you help me, i am looking for info on platoon 353 and 3rd marine air wing red eye el torro california, my husband was there from 70 to 73, pk smith called him smitty. thanks

E-Mail: Brenda

Posted by: Tom Griswold on October 1, 2009 7:21 AM

Clarinet and tenor player 72-73, 3rd Mar Div Okinawa. Some of the best times of my life. Where are ya Morales?????Terrones?????
Thanks to Dutch and John N for getting in touch.

E-Mail: hornshoptom@comcast.net

Posted by: Tom Barlow MSgt (Ret) on January 30, 2010

I was in the Band(s) from 1954 -1977. Served at Cherry Point; Quantico, 3rd Mar Div (61-62) again (68-69) Quang Tri, Marine Bks Pearl HArbor, 29 Stumps & School of Music. It was a great journey and I still miss all of the great times & performances. All you Marines are great--Semper Fi!!

E-Mail: Barlow59@mac.com

Posted by: Rich Bouzak on June 16, 2010

served with 1st marine division band in the nam from june 1969 to june 1970; whats up with schwing,enbom,coppella,evans,santiago,miller,fos,cooper, app,denahy,freeman???

E-Mail: bouzekr@comcast.net

Posted by Chuck Bretz on June 23, 2010

Great site Don. Thanks for doing it.

I was in the Corps from Aug.’68 until June ’86 when I was discharged with a medical disability.  I served with you in San Diego, along with “Corky” Whitney and others.  I would like very much to get in contact with Steve Cseplo and Mark Price if anybody has contact info. on them.  I spent time at every Band in the Corps except Cherry Point.  I was at the School of Music twice, once for the Intermediate course, and once for the Advanced course.  I also spent a year in Okinawa and was with “Taifu”.  I’ve been on Doug LaPoint’s web site and it’s a good one too, dedicated to the Okinawa Band.

Is the Association still operating?  I’d like to get involved if it is.

E-Mail: cbpetman@optonline.net

Posted by Don on June 23, 2010

Semper Fi Bro! The MCMA is alive and well. Visit: http://www.marinemusicians.org/

Posted by: Jack Denahy on 8/26/2010 at 2:47 AM

Semperfi fellow bandsman. I served from 1968-70 1st at mcrd sd. then 1st mar. div. band Danang 69-70.I played trombone and was 2nd squad leader on the hill. Would like to hear from anyone that I served with.

E-Mail: wlabs@comcast.net

Posted by: Mary Roan on 11/4/2010 at 7:56 AM

I love the site!  My dad was a Marine and I believe there are no finer defenders of liberty in the world! 
I love you guys!

E-Mail: mroan1861@ndemand.com

Posted by: Joe Chmiko on 12/12/2010 at 6:46 AM

Semper Fi, Sir, I am Joe Chmiko, 2174386 (5534). I served with 1st Mar Div Band 66-68. In my attempt to contact Corky Whitney I came to your web site BUT was not able to submit at the guest page.... dumber than dirt ? Also noticed other familiar names, Seager, Cook, Caraway et al. Please advise best contact/sign-in method. R/S, J M Chmiko, Sergeant Stripes Forever

E-Mail: jjooeemc@gmail.com

Posted by: Hayes Ryan Jr. on 12/20/2010 at 5:03 PM

Welcoming any 3rdMarDivBand Marines having served from 1971 - 1974 in Okinawa, Japan.  Siempre Fi!!!

E-Mail: hryan001@yahoo.com

Posted by:Tom Singletary on 1/15/2011 at 8:22 PM

Hello-I was in Platoon 3067-arrived April of 1969-Platoon Commander was Staff Sgt. Drake-I was a squad leader & remember many things like they were yesterday-God knows I hated the "Squat Thrusts Forever" HA HA HA It was all good for me-I needed the discipline & direction.  Made alot of friends & strong bonding.  SEMPER FI !!

E-Mail: TSingle482@aol.com

Posted by: Steve Bodak on 2/9/2011 at 9:50 PM

looking for parris island platoon 1014 1958 people

E-Mail: bodak5@juno.com

Posted by: Peter Diliberti on 2/27/2011 at 12:35 AM

My name is Peter Diliberti.
I served in the 1st Division Marine Band in 1960-1961.
I then went to Pearl Harbor Hawaii, and served in the Marine Band, with Sgt Chas Jimerson and many other career Marines in 1962 and 1963. I ended my tour as a Cpl E4.

Posted by:Daved Clark on 3/5/2011 at 11:12 PM

Dear Sir,
I served with the 3rd MAF D&B from Dec.'66- July '68 and am unsure if we ever met. The faces remain, but many of the names have gone away. I played baritone and was there during TET. We were at a flick and it sounded like a grenade went off in the ville. That kind of got everyone's attention. Then, a rocket made a direct hit on a Staff NCO barracks. They later piled body parts on sheets of plywood. We watched from a bunker as rockets hit in the supply depot across the road. Cpl. John Kolea had his ears blown out/ Purple Heart. Spent the last 9 months of enlistment in a barracks at USNB Los Angeles. Played taps at a couple hundred military funerals, mostly Marine KIA's.S/ Sgt. Hahn directed The D&B. When he left for LeJeune, it seemed like the soul of The Drum Corps went with him. Naturally, things just weren't the same. He was a great Marine musician and a true leader. I got an early out in April,'69. I'm sorry there's not much recorded about the Drum Corps. Actually, I think the only reason it existed at all was that Gen.Walt liked drum corps. Somehow, I don't remember the place being called Camp Horne. It was just 3rd MAF. Hdq. As you came in the gate, we were in the 3rd barracks on the left. Thanks for listening to the ramblings.
David Clark

E-Mail: daveclark4762@yahoo.com

Posted by Morris Caraway on 3/12/2011 at 7:40 PM

in san diego 64-67. 1 div 67-68, eltoro 68-70.

E-Mail: morris182@juno.com

Posted by Ira ( Joe ) Joseph on 3/22/2011 at 12:24 AM

I am looking for anyone that was in Platoon 34 7th.Recruit Bn.at MCRD San Diego Ca.from Jan.1952 to March 1952.I also went to Korea on the 29th.Draft Other than Boot Camp and Korea I spent all my time at Camp Pendelton Ca.

E-Mail : flhs93@q.com

Posted by: Reid Herrod on 4/16/2011 at 10:33 AM

Played in Camp Pendleton Band 1954, then 1stMAW Band 1955...Drum Major Tom DeAngelo, then 6 months 1956 at Parris Island Base Band with WO Bart LaRocca..Band Director..I am a member of MCMA and have been to one reunion meeting two former Band members..Sgt Jim Smale trombone and PFC Bernard Brannigan..clarinet...both were dear friends and now deceased.. I have also been corresponding via e-mail with George Helmke (trumpet) with whom I was stationed in 1954 in the Camp Pendleton Band..

E-Mail: saxman1933@aol.com

Posted by: Rich Zeciski on 8/14/2011 8:28 PM

I served  as a 5543 with the 1st Mar Div Band Mar 65 until Sept 66 and assigned 1st Mar Div DBC serving with Pretzer, Moreland, Watters, Moser, Jenkins, Patterson, Jones, Naber and others. Also, assigned to the Parris Island Band Oct 66-Oct 67 serving with Weems, Swingle, Capt Black and others

Thanks for adding this for me. I also have some photos from those days. One of the Parris Island band circa 1967 that I think that you already have online

Rich Zeciski
Cincinnati, Ohio
E-Mail: rich@teamzvb.com

Posted by Larry Cook on 12/7/2011 at 11:39 AM

        Larry R. Cook
        MSgt   USMC(ret)

    I was in the Marine Corps from ‘59 to ‘79 and was in the band field from 59 – 65.   I spent 18 months in the San Diego band under CWO Laroca, Tom Cook and others before being transferred to Marine Barracks Pearl Harbor Band.  I was in Hawaii from Dec 60 until November 63 serving with Dan Oser, “Jimmy” Jimmerson, PPPPPPete Raubinger, Claude Elliot, Pete Diliberti, Neal Larner, Jerry Nichols, ....  I went to the School of Music in Washington DC before being transferred to 29 Palms.  In November 65 I was assigned to recruiting duty for four years.  In ‘70 I went to Computer Sciences School in Quantico where I finished out my career in Philly, Okinawa (Camp Foster) and lastly Kansas City.

    Would love to hear from anyone who served in these units. Larry

E-Mail: lr_cook@msn.com

Posted by Bob Anderson on 1/19/2012 at 8:42 PM

Bob Anderson

1st MarDiv Band 10-63/3/64, MB Pearl Harbor Band 3-64/3-66, 3rd MAW Band 4-66/6-67.

E-Mail: editor@industrynet.com

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