I tried my hardest through the years to get Lena to consent to be buried in Arlington Natioal Cemetary with her Johnny. I have been trying to find you. On October 24, 1942, John Basilone was supporting the war effort in the Lunga Area. While stationed at Camp Pendleton, he met his future wife, Lena Mae Riggi, who was a Sergeant in the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. Sgt. She purchased a home in Lakewood, California and lived there for over 50 years until her death. Famous John Basilone was born on November 4, 1916 in United States. She loved him very much. His great personal valor and courageous initiative were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. We do a ceremony every wednesday for Vets without Families WE look straight out on her grave Rest in Peace Lena Basilone. United States Government. John Basilone (November 4, 1916 - February 19, 1945) was a United States Marine Gunnery Sergeant who received the Medal of Honor for his actions at the Battle of Guadalcanal during World War II. John Basilone whom she was aware of. John Basilone's Grave.
Virginia Grey - Biography - IMDb Peter J. Basilone, 78, Balto. Co. register - Baltimore Sun They were married at St. Mary's Star of the Sea . John Basilone, who had already served three years in the Phillippines with the U.S. Army when he joined the Marines in 1940 as a machine gunner with C Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine . I finally got to see the Pacificand I was just blown away! He was deployed to Guantnamo Bay, Cuba, and in August 1942, he took part in the invasion of Guadalcanal. Thank you?
The Incredible Story of John Basilone, U.S. Marine What I have learned about John Basilone has been influential on how I did my job as an NCO. She was satisfied to live on with her memories of John and their relationship, far more consoling than a medal. . Only 34 Japanese survived it. I served for 34 years nearly and the others did service from 4-30 years.I definitely appreciate what family did in Vietnam. They served with me steadfastly for almost 34 years ,over 1/2 my lifetime.
Remembering John Basilone, Medal of Honor, USMC Guadalcanal John Basilone Obituary (1956 - 2023) - Legacy Remembers As I have grown up and I served many others became my family when I lost my dad to cancer.They filled in as role models and kept on the right path. [9][10] As the battle went on, ammunition became critically low. His arrival was highly publicized, and his hometown held a parade in his honor when he returned. Paul I want to learn about Nam because what my commanders in Basic, AIT, and even in units I later joined trained this old medic in Vietnam methods, tactics and how to stay alive, especially when the cry medic was heard, aka our fatal flaw. And finally, while home on leave, Basilone predicts his own death on Iwo Jima. Regards,Doc, Robin: I second a lot of Pauls comments. I tried your church and they had nothing and various places and people in Ca,You were so important to Aunt Lena. Gracias, amiga! Lena was notified of his death on March 7, 1945 her 32nd birthday. Died February 19, 1945, Iwo Jima, Japan Spouse Lena Mae . GOD bless you, and thank you for evidently just being you. However, this time my sentiments were of the lives and the wonderment of them as people. To apply for a WMA Emergency Grant, you must complete the online application form and provide documentation of your financial emergency. My Uncle Dick fought and flag razed on Mount Suribaci. [17][18][19], His actions helped Marines penetrate the Japanese defense and get off the landing beach during the critical early stages of the invasion. My uncles Dwight, Gil and Corky fought on Iwo. She did have beautiful soft natural slightly curly hair, and she kept it short.. I am a retired US Army medic that served for 33 1/2 years. I want to reduce veteran suicide statistic rate. Lena was a pioneer and an example many Marines can follow, I forgot to comment on you father. I am a child of the Vietnam era and I was shaped by those soldiers who fought in Vietnam and adapted to them. I too am writing about her for a project in the Marines. Thanks for the kind words. My father served in the Pacific and took part in the Central Pacific and Palau campaign(Peleliu). She had her memories of John Basilone. : http://www.facebook.com/groups/10868541353/. She lived in California, worked for the electric company, and volunteered to serve in several organizations related to Marine. Please call me and send your number. On the night of Oct. 24, 1942, on the island of Guadalcanal, a Japanese regiment of 3,000 troops attacked a handful of Marines, including Sergeant Basilone. Their work will not be forgotten by all who were in contact with them. John was killed on Iwo Jima February 19, 1945 just seven months after marrying the love of his life and seven months before the allies would declare victory in the Pacific.
Sgt Lena Mae (Riggi) Basilone | The semi-normal, day - a female Marine This saved innumerable lives.John and Lena Basilones were legends.they contributed mightily to our victory inthe Pacific. This is how I remember those who were vets like my dad and friends including my oldest sister. God bless Sgt. I grew up learning all about both of them.The Marines were blessed to have these soldiers.This is why we are a free country by their mere presence John met Lena at Pendleton,it took a while because Lena was her own woman and a noncomissioned officer whe eventually attained the rank of Master Sergeant, She did not rush to John immediately as you saw in the Pacific but once she did they were head over heels for each other.John was a no nonsense Gunnery Sergeant and was very good with a machine gun and thats what got him the Congressional Medal of Honor(equivalent to a Victoria Cross). i know in the movie she went to visit his parents.
Virginia Grey Hollywood Starlet & Pin Up - WW2 DOG TAGS I miss Lena even it was a brief time I knew her .Regards,SSG Rick Doc Borenstein Ret, Hi Barbara, After seeing pacific and reading about John Basilone i have so much admiration for the both of them. to me it was a tough and frustrating war in many ways. I just had a question, was she close to his family after he passed? When he requested again to return to the war, the request was approved. (Thats my VietNam). Please feel free to email me at Alison.bardeguez@usmc.mil. She was the official sponsor of the destroyer named after him, the USS Basilone, and she participated in its christening ceremony: Sergeant Lena Mae Basilone, USMC(WR), ships sponsor, prepares to christen the destroyer, at the Consolidated Steel Company Shipyard, Orange, Texas, on 21 December 1945.
The Life And Legend Of John Basilone: Marine Medal Of Honor Winner And [4], Basilone enlisted in the United States Army in July 1934[4] and completed his three-year enlistment with service in the Philippines, where he was a champion boxer. We spoke once, I am Lena Riggi BAsilones niece, Lost your number in Computer world of storms. She had a very strong love for Gy.Sgt John Basilone even though their marriage was short,it was a very strong one. John Basilone's relationship with Lena Mae Basilone ended when John Basilone died on February 19, 1945. John Basilone's passing at the age of 66 on Sunday, February 5, 2023 has been publicly announced by Bradley and Stow Funeral Home in Medford, NJ. I wonder why she only appeared in public the one time on his behalf Did she ever say more about her husband or her marriage? I met her sometime in 1986 when she visited our church and we became instant friends. Basilone: Directed by David Nutter. I wanted t join the USMC in 1st MARDIV but my cousin and uncle were already there and I had to settle for the Army. He did things bigger than himself and didnt want the limelight. In 1943, Basilone returned to the United States and participated in war bond tours. Explore John Basilone net worth, birthday, height, age, bio, salary, 2023!
How John Basilone died in The Pacific. He didn't actually - AVForums The lady was happy to know that Lena was also a Portland Marine. There are few like them. You got tired both physically and mentally quickly. John Basilone: An article in Monday's Calendar section about John Basilone, whose death on Iwo Jima was marked on the HBO series "The Pacific," described him as a Congressional Medal of. I thank you for you service and recognize what you did for us soldiers Respectfully,SSG.RichardDocBorenstein(Retired) Combat Medic, Welcome David: My name is SSG RickDoc Borenstein I served in the US Army from 1973-2007 and retired. Lena Basilone, wife of Sgt. By Jeff McDonald. Wendy 2003 How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days: Jeannie Ashcroft 2004 Pagans: Elise Ashton 2004 National Treasure: Agent Dawes After her funeral I had copies of their wedding picture made and sent to those who attended and left their addresses (I sent other things also, but cant remember exactlynow that I am 80!) John Basilone (November 4, 1916 - February 19, 1945) was a United States Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant who received the Medal of Honor for actions during the Battle for Henderson Field in the Guadalcanal campaign, and the Navy Cross posthumously for extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Iwo Jima. When the heavy .30 . Doc
Blue 'Pacific' - New York Post I am not nor have ever been a member of the American Armed forces.
John Basilone - Alchetron, The Free Social Encyclopedia Women marines can be rifleman which it is only right and fair. Both Eisenhower and Patton wanted to keep on the heels of the Germans, which supposedely justified using the Remagen Bridge. Brother & Sister. She remained married to her hero for the rest of her life . I will also remember Audie L. Murphys wife Terrry along with Lena who helped us wounded vets navigate through the VA system and get the help we needed. The civilian man initially had no pulse, and bystanders told the Marine they assumed he was dead. The saddest days of my life were seeing Lenas normally fighting spirit wane after her surgery. We were proud to do this.You make our sacrifices bearable. Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone / USMC (1916-1945): . The gave us a lot and we appreciated their help in return as they helped us vets adjust. My hero as well as her husband. It was the only one standing as the 9th Division approached and crossed it. VERY fascinating story about both Gy Basilone and Sgt Lena. Virginia Grey Entertainment - Actress Why Famous: Hullabaloo, film Age: 87 (3/22/1917 - 7/31/2004) Virginia Grey's Relationships (3) John Basilone Other - Other Why Famous: Recipient of Medal of Honor for Battle of Guadalcanal "Sgt. However, in John's case, something got mixed up. John Basilone was born to be a United States Marine. I warmly greet.
Vera Keller | The Pacific Wiki | Fandom Virginia Grey is now deceased. Widowed Unfortunately, Basilone was killed in action on Iwo Jima. The Marines and Army suffered over 10000 casualities.. I had it easy in comparison. For extraordinary heroism while serving as a Leader of a Machine-Gun Section, Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 19 February 1945. My mother married my father in 43 during the war and she constantly worried about him until he came. The date was February 19, 1945. Although he appreciated the admiration, he felt out of place and requested to return to the operating forces fighting the war. While you and your familys service is gratefuly appreciated, as a vietnam vet I have never talked or disscused voluntarily my service time as much as you seem to be inclined to do. I am eternal grateful for that help. Lena Basilone returns her late husband's Medal of Honor to his family.From HBO's "The Pacific", episode 10 of 10. Think we need more people like Lena, your Dad, and yourself. I wish i could have known her. Once in a while, I add a friends name to it. Consistently daring and aggressive as he fought his way over the battle-torn beach and up the sloping, gun-studded terraces toward Airfield Number 1, he repeatedly exposed himself to the blasting fury of exploding shells and later in the day coolly proceeded to the aid of a friendly tank which had been trapped in an enemy mine field under intense mortar and artillery barrages, skillfully guiding the heavy vehicle over the hazardous terrain to safety, despite the overwhelming volume of hostile fire.
Marine's heroism gave him legendary status - San Diego Union-Tribune Doc..thanks for the reply. Regards Doc I Was A combat medic like my father, Thank You for thinking of Lena Basilone.She did a lot as was mentioned in my previous comments.She helped a lot of our veterans get access to services they needed. "If the Japanese force got through Basilone . That she and Gunnery Sgt. He then attacked with grenades and demolitions, single-handedly destroying the entire strong point and its defending garrison. Stouthearted and indomitable, Gunnery Sergeant BASILONE, by his intrepid initiative, outstanding skill, and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of the fanatic opposition, contributed materially to the advance of his company during the early critical period of the assault, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout the bitter conflict was an inspiration to his comrades and reflects the highest credit upon Gunnery Sergeant BASILONE and the United States Naval Service. Maybe a bio or maybe a fictionalized with fact sort of book ala Alex Haileys Rootsbut we shall see what we shall see. I sometimes wonder how my family members who fought on Peleliu,Okinawa, and Iwo Jima fought on an island cemetery,the constant artillery and mortar fire, and combat. In 21 Dec 1945 Lena christened a Navy destroyer ship named the USS Basilone in her husband's honor. We also appreciated the material contributions you made to the war effort.As medics, my father and I kept many people alive when injured but we also kept them up mentally and maintained their health. As he moved along the edge of the airfield, he was killed by Japanese mortar shrapnel (based on his research for the book and miniseries The Pacific, author Hugh Ambrose suggested that Basilone was killed by a burst of small arms fire which hit him in the right groin and neck and nearly took off his left arm). They both left with honorable discharges and they were both Sargents. Few veterans around the world have a system like and we can make it better. Born in Buffalo, New York, on 4 November 1916, he went to St. Bernard Parochial School in Raritan and enlisted in the Army at the age of 18. During her participation in WWII bond drives, she developed a close relationship with John Basilone, US Marine Medal of Honor recipient, who was later killed on Iwo Jima.
Sergeant John Basilone - MarineParents.com Charles "Check" Tatum. Basilone's Medal of Honor citation reads as follows: The President of the United States in the name of The Congress takes pride in presenting the MEDAL OF HONOR to. I served from 73-2007 Vietnam era to Iraq. Lena was also very prominent in veterans affairs. Highest Regards,SSG Rick Doc Borenstein, Thank you Barbara for your kind words. He then repaired and manned another machine gun, holding the defensive line until relief arrived. Lena too lived a life of service Helping many veterans. On October 24, 1942, during the Battle for Henderson Field, his unit came under attack by a regiment of about 3,000 soldiers from the Japanese Sendai Division using machine guns, grenades, and mortars against the American heavy machine guns. "My heart is full of both sadness and joy today," Imbese said after the ceremony. They .
John Basilone | Medal of Honor Recipient | Study.com WowI just started reading Im Staying With My Boys, the book about her husband. We did our jobs and what were asked to do. During the fighting on Guadalcanal in October 1942, Basilone's actions would result in him being awarded the Medal of Honor. Lena Basilone, plus every picture I could find of her in her uniform showing her Sgt. BASILONE, JOHN United States Marine Corps VETERAN SERVICE DATES: Unknown DATE OF DEATH: 02/19/1945 DATE OF INTERMENT: 04/20/1948 BURIED AT: SECTION 12 SITE 384 ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY Michael Robert Patterson was born in Arlington and is the son of a former officer of the US Army. May they unit in heaven & continue their love story forever, Its the women our lives that makes coming home worth it. I know your comment is from many years ago, but I do hope this finds you well! "Lena was notified of Johnny's death on March 7, 1945. These Marines were the pioneers who created an Army I passed my torch unto as well as Marine Corps we have today. They were married on July 7, 1944 and spent some time together before John returned to the South Pacific. The Japanese charged the hill relentlessly, with dead Japanese soldiers serving as human bridges so that their remaining comrades could cross over the barbed wire fences near the American perimeter. Lena was ahead of her time as were many women Marines. We will be running around all weekend for various events with the Commandant of the Marine Corps and of course multiple Iwo Jima survivors. On her 32nd birthday she receive word of Johns death on Iwo Jima.He was one of the many who laid their lives down for not only fellow Marines, but also for US Army airmen in crippled B29s who could not return to the Mariana Island base and would have had to face the perils of the Pacific. 75 years after, my heart had broke. On February 19, 1945, the first day of the invasion of Iwo Jima, he was serving as a machine gun section leader on Red Beach II. As in most documentary/films some of the scenes and portrails of Lena were not quite right. She is interviewing Iwo Jima Marines and those who knew her Uncle. Semper Fi Marine, Well done rest in peace. Their bomber was called Cabin In the sky. For his actions during the battle, Basilone received the United States military's highest award for valor, the Medal of Honor. Lena always had her wallet full of Johnnys pictures. John Basilone (November 4, 1916 February 19, 1945) was a United States Marine Corps gunnery sergeant who was killed in action during World War II. She was stationed at Camp Pendleton where she served as a field cook on the base attaining the rank of Sergeant. The service teachs you to do things bigger than yourself. His actions at Guadalcanal earned him the Medal of Honor. care.If that helps you.
Marine hero honored again with ship name - San Diego Union-Tribune I just watched HBO's The Pacific episode 7, it was great, tons of action. He left for Camp Pendleton, California, for training on December 27. He was killed on February 19, 1945 in an exchange of heavy gunfire on Iwo Jima. We need everyone on the line. Thank you, to the Sergeants Basilone for their service, and may God have united you again in heaven. I am proud to be a citizen from the same country, USA, as these two remarkable people and salute their service and sacrifices. Lena as a dear and precious friend of mine.