Eleven Galenians Enlist in the USMC on August 26, 1953-- Part 2

Joe Greibe says they chose to enlist at the Dubuque, Iowa, post office, because they wanted to do their basic training in San Diego, California. In those days, men who enlisted west of the Mississippi River went there. Those east of the river went to Quantico, Virginia, (I thought that would be Parris Island, SC.)

No doubt these eleven new Marines sure made some enlistment officer's quota for the month. The following day, they went to Des Moines, Iowa, for physicals. All passed except Jim Rosenthal who had a back problem.

A month later, Jim had a second physical, this time in Chicago, and passed. Of interest, Jim Rosenthal was the only one of the group who made a career with the Marines, serving 30 years.

All made it home safely after their service, although some have since died. I wish there had been more to the story of these men, especially if they served together and experiences they had.

Quite a Story.  --Cooter