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Marine Gathering Celebrates More than 50 people attended a celebration of the 232nd birthday of the United States Marine Corps held Saturday, Nov. 10 at the Peavine Restaurant in Stockbridge. Hosted by Lt. Col. Bill Harvey of Rochester, the event began with an invocation given by Maj. Melvin McLaughlin. Cpl. Dick Brown explained the symbolism of the items on the POW/MIA table, and asked for a moment of silence in memory of them. Harvey gave a tribute to Sen. John McCain, one of the best-known Marine POWs during the Vietnam War. Larry Baker of Pittsford also spoke about the services offered by the VA Hospital. As each of the Marines present rose to introduce themselves, they told stories about their years of service, which ranged from World War II to the present day conflict in Iraq. Among those who spoke were Duane King of Braintree and his sons, Carl and Rick. Both of them have served in Iraq. Dana Goodnow of Tunbridge was proud to attend the event with his grandson, Brent Goddard, who at 21, was the youngest Marine present. A third-generation Marine, Goddard pointed out that he was literally born into the Corps, since he was born at Camp Lejeune, N.C., while his father, now a colonel who recently commanded a battalion in Iraq, was stationed there. Major McLaughlin, 90, of Randolph, who was the oldest Marine present, pointed out that his wife of 64 years, Florence, was one of the first women Marines. Chris Costanzo of Bethel gave the traditional reading of General Lejeune’s birthday message, and Ken Goss of Randolph read the commandant’s message. Guest speaker Deane Merrill of Woodstock, served in the South Pacific during World War II, beginning a long career with the USMC. He told stories about his experiences then, illustrating them by making contrasts with the Marine Corps of today. Looking around the room, Merrill concluded by noting proudly, "We’ve got a pretty wide distribution of Marine Corps experience in this bunch!" The final part of the celebration was the traditional parading of the cake, while Joe Steventon played the "Marine Corps Hymn." Harvey used his ceremonial sword to cut the cake. Harvey and his wife, Judy Pierce, began the local celebration in 1993. It took place in Rochester for many years, before moving to Stockbridge. ____________ |
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