Marines know honor. It is instilled into us and we live it. Our pride in the Corps dates back to November 10, 1775 when a “Corps of Marines” was formally established. You are never an Ex-Marine because once you earn the right to wear the Eagle, Globe & Anchor you earn the title “Marine” for the rest of your life.

The picture you see was posted on our Guns & Patriots Facebook fan page. I received a message from a G & P member saying that he was the Marine in the picture. I asked him to tell me the story of the picture.

“The photo was taken by Goran Tomasevic who is a Reuters photographer. It was taken Feb. 13 2010 in Marjah Afghanistan. That was the day we helo inserted there for our operation, and we came under heavy contact from all sides. I was in the middle of talking to the local asking about the Taliban in the area and if there was anything unsafe to him or us. I am part of 1st Battalion 6th Marines, Bravo Company.”
~Travis Dawson/ SGT, USMC, 0311

I asked Sgt. Dawson to tell us about himself:

“I am still active duty. I joined after high school in 2004. I’m from Continental, OH.  I went to Parris Island. The first two years I was in I was Security Forces in Kings Bay, Ga. Then I got orders to 1/6 in early 2007 where I’ve been ever since. I’ve done two deployments with 1/6, both to Afghanistan. I plan on staying in for at least 20 years. I love what I do!”

It is men like Sgt. Dawson that spread freedom, defend the United States of America and make me proud of my service in the Corps. Do what you can, when you can, to support our troops.

Semper Fi Sgt. Dawson, Semper Fi.