I have had my father, uncles, and even grandfathers who fought in WW II and have had find out what it was like because vets find it easier to talk to other vets. I wish i was around then. John Basilone. Regardless of whether Basilone's ability was real or imagined, what matters is that he believed it, making his request for orders to the fleet and his actions on Iwo Jima all the more astounding. The top brass who gave the OK should be the ones to blame. I am eternal grateful for that help. Many, including Virginia herself, expected them to marry . Regards, David, I still dont understand Lenas comment about not wanting to be a bother to anyone and NOT be buried near her husband to be quite strange. I have written about Her for years, and a photograph of the current Headstone can be found at. Thank God she had someone. Lena was also very prominent in veterans affairs. This is what I remember about Lena. She belongs at Arlington. Lena was ahead of her time as were many women Marines. I am very moved and I thank all the American soldiers who fought the cruel war in the Pacific and here in our Europe. But his place was with "my boys", so he ignored the vision and returned to battle . John Basilone killed at Iwo Jima Marc Lancaster Feb 19, 2022 1 Among the approximately 300,000 Americans killed in action in World War II, John Basilone's death on Feb. 19, 1945 holds a unique place in the history of the conflict. She was definitely an in charge Sergeant,but was well respected because she too could lead. I do not think man will ever exorcise the demons of war.I dont feel that the future holds a lot encouraging movement for ridding us of war. The number 456 references one of hundreds of end notes in the back of the book. Correction here: No such thing as a MOH winner. Megan, I met Lena long after she served in the USMC. 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. She was such a compassionate, no nonsense, spirited lady. They were good examples which I followed. [21] His widow, Lena M. Basilone, died on June 11, 1999, aged 86, and is buried at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California. Im writing a piece on Lena Basilone, I am a Marine and have been looking to speak with people that could share stories about Lena, and her life of love, friendship and her service to veterans after the Marine Corps. He was killed on February 19, 1945 in an exchange of heavy gunfire on Iwo Jima. Lena too lived a life of service Helping many veterans. If possible I would like to speak with you about setting up an introduction so that his niece can speak with you. Death and burial ground of Basilone, John, "Manila John". John Basilone MoH. Marine Sergeant John Basilone receives his Medal of Honor in recognition of his heroism on Guadalcanal on October 24-25, 1942. By the end of the engagement, Japanese forces opposite the Marines' lines had been virtually annihilated. John Basilone. If any of you served with or knew Lena please let me know. I am amazed that they kept their mental sanity, but did suffer from PTSD as I do. Anyway it looks like John and Lena Basilone meet and fall in love during episode 8. BASILONE, in charge of 2 sections of heavy machine guns, fought valiantly to check the savage and determined assault. Truly a wonderful woman of strong beliefs. Thanks Robin. Vera, always treasure what John and Lena were, real icons and professionals. If Gy Basilone, one of the greatest Marines who ever lived, had respect for a Woman Marine enough to marry one, then they need to show respect, too! I too am writing about her for a project in the Marines. The civilian man initially had no pulse, and bystanders told the Marine they assumed he was dead. He was sent home to sell. I think you went through a tougher ringer than I did with exception for Iraq. Marine's heroism gave him legendary status. This may include medical bills, eviction notices, or other relevant documents. 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). She is interviewing Iwo Jima Marines and those who knew her Uncle. Thats typical. After his request to return to the fleet was approved, Basilone was assigned to "C" Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division. Lena lives within a lot of us,sons of Pacific veterans and contemporary Marines and soldiers.Regards,SSG Rick ,Doc Borenstein, Hello Mrs. Barbara Garner, are an Italian lady and my name is Stella. the bridge stood for 10 days and collapsed? WowI just started reading Im Staying With My Boys, the book about her husband. My father served in the Pacific and took part in the Central Pacific and Palau campaign(Peleliu). 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. Your email address will not be published. I am not the Richard who posted this excellent comment. Though the battle was fierce and the Marines' defensive positions were being barraged, Sgt. It is the blood of John and those who served that binds the mortar of the foundation of the greatest nation ever! Which made him keep his accounts inside of him. Thank you both for your service to the greatest nation in the world. Lena M. Basilone died June 11, 1999, at the age of 86, and was buried at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California . 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. The U.S. Navy named a destroyer after him in 1945, which Lena Mae christened. One must remember that Sgt Basilone volunteer to return to battle which he did not have too being a MOH recipient. They fought the war professionally and with great courage and valor.Their service shall always honored and remembered. Ca.. According to the funeral . As in most documentary/films some of the scenes and portrails of Lena were not quite right. You got tired both physically and mentally quickly. [12] After the parade, Basilone toured the country raising money for the war effort and achieved celebrity status. She was laid to rest in the National Cemetery at Riverside, California. I know through history lessons and though reading many books that John Basilone had done exactly what I would have done if given the chance. While the enemy was hammering at the Marines' defensive positions, Sgt. I can also say to you that those who do - seem to need some sort of verification for their time in country. We do a ceremony every wednesday for Vets without Families WE look straight out on her grave Rest in Peace Lena Basilone. David Rodgers: I found MSG Riggi was a marine of her own and even so at Long Beach VA. She said being married to John Basilone was the best thing in her life. She worked for the electric company and volunteered countless hours of her time at the Womens Marine Association, the American Veterans Auxiliary, and the Long Beach Veterans Hospital. Lena helped many of us including me to get help from the VA.While I had briefly known her. I found that the combatants descended into a savage war the like I hope we never see again. She was very selfless.and helped without expecting anything in return. I didnt write for periods up to 1 month. 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. Please let me know. If so where can I find it. My uncles Dwight, Gil and Corky fought on Iwo. Shirt sleeves rolled up and of course the regulation short hair in hairnets!! It should be cherished by Marines Past, Present, and Future. He was the only enlisted Marine in World War II to receive the Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross. In October, he and the two machine-gun sections under his command held off an attack by a numerically far superior Japanese force. Stella. Although he appreciated the admiration, he felt out of place and requested to return to the operating forces fighting the war. She died 55 years after her husband, in 1999, and was buried wearing her wedding ring. 1939. It the untold storys you eventually get to hear that you never forget Im so glad that this was shared, Marie: Lena was the pioneer for what the post WWII Marine corps would be today.Women are playing a vital role in what occurs in the modern USMC today. However, she decided to go and pray at church instead, since America had made the decision to enter the war the day before due to the devastating, ruthless Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and news of Japan's recent takeover of Shanghai, China . She one of a kind,who we may never see the likes of again. The television show featured her as a significant character in the final episode: The Pacific Part 8: Iwo Jima: While he is training a company of recruits in the fine art of killing Japanese, Basilone meets Lena Riggi, a female Marine just turned 30 and cynical as hell about the advances of yet another lonely guy in uniform, especially a celebrity who can get the best tables at the nicest restaurants. Hi Robin: I second what you said. To me John was a legend whose legacy will not be matched for a long time. "My heart is full of both sadness and joy today," Imbese said after the ceremony. In later life she served at the VA ;and everyone she came into contact with. My family is most Army AF Navy and yes Marines. Outmanned and with supplies low, Basilone and other marines on Guadacanal rally to repel superior Japanese forces. I kind of figured Lenas headsone would not be in the location it was supposed to be. They had been married for 7.3 months. I warmly greet. 456 John Basilone died a painful death in the dirt near Motoyama Airfield Number One. Thank You Robin, Hi Robin and Barbara:I was recently out to my old home at Anaheim. Basilone's Navy Cross citation reads as follows: The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the NAVY CROSS posthumously to. At first they did not want to acknowledge Lena had the rank of Sgt. The Pacific War was one of the most savage wars ever fought. Doesnt make sense to me at all, along with returning his medal of honor and insurance to his family. Just 26 years old, Manila John Basilone had entered the ranks of the Marine Corps pantheon of heroes -- and shortly America would take the big, handsome Marine with jug ears and a smile like a neon sign to their hearts. : http://www.facebook.com/groups/10868541353/. Robin: Ask Barbara About what Lena said I dont want to bother anyone because she was like a daughter to Lena. I think the I dont want to be a bother remark reflected the reported poor treatment she received from Basilones family. us army combat medic i, FORT HOOD, Texas (Dec.11, 2022) Members of the search fire and rescue team, assigned to the Marine Corps Chemical, Biological Incident Response Force, saws through concrete while conducting a rescue during Exercise Sudden Response 23 at Fort Hood, Texas Dec. 11, 2022. At 7 p.m. Sept. 17, the Raritan Valley Symphonic Band will present the free 27th John Basilone Commemorative Concert at Raritan Valley Community College in Branchburg. God love the brothers from Nam and I never stop thinking about you guys. Military units comprising the Defense CBRN Response Force (DCRF) participated in Exercise [], FORT HOOD, Texas (Dec.11, 2022) Members of the search fire and rescue team, assigned to the Marine Corps Chemical, Biological Incident Response Force, drill through concrete while conducting a rescue during Exercise Sudden Response 23 at Fort Hood, Texas Dec. 11, 2022. I served 33 1/2 years from the Vietnam Era to Iraq.. Each time his visions came to pass - including the last - foretelling his death. I hope in some small measure I brought honor to Lena. To me as I have said before was a legend of her own in the Marine Corps. The Death of "Manila John" Basilone. She helped veterans thru the hospital maze at LA VA.Both Audie Murphy and John Basilone were soldiers who we will never see their likes again.Toghetje both these women gave immeasurable service to veterans and made sure we got what we needed.Lena served her Marine corps with distiinction and a pride which established the standard of what Marines needed to aspire to be. His love for her was her memorial. This has been an exclusively a mans kingdom. My father was a medic,like me. Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 24 and 25 October 1942. A simple handshake and thank you was all the recognition he wanted.I also feel Lena found out John was killed on her 32nd birthday. Women marines can be rifleman which it is only right and fair. [11] Afterwards, Private First Class Nash W. Phillips of Fayetteville, North Carolina, recalled from the battle for Guadalcanal: "Basilone had a machine gun on the go for three days and nights without sleep, rest, or food. In February 1945, he was killed in action on the first day of the invasion of Iwo Jima, after he single-handedly destroyed an enemy blockhouse and led a Marine tank under fire safely through a minefield. I found your blog by chance and thoroughly enjoyed this article about Lena. During brutal fighting with heavy casualties on both sides, he killed at least 38 Japanese soldiers. Hi Mike or Major Pain. Death At Iwo Jima Please call me and send your number. Marine Sergeant Lena Basilone was the wife of Medal of Honor winner John Basilone. I wished he didnt go back to war but he was truly a hero and great marine. So he couldnt have possibly made the best coffee she ever had. Still, its a good part of the story consider that may very well have been the reaction of some parents upon discovering their daughter was joining the Marine Corps. Although she was just. Keep up the good work Women Marines Association! "That was our first real look, up close, at the war."-John Basilone. God bless! Thank you? I would think she should be buried beside John Basilone., I think Arlington has different requirements from other cemeteries. 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 GySgt John Basilones niece will be staying with me here in DC for the next few days. Military units comprising the Defense CBRN Response Force (DCRF) participated in Exercis []. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. In fact if you talk to many who are still alive they will tell you they do not enjoy having that reminder but they respect the award and that is that. She is one of the marines who made the corps what it is today. She is in town for the Iwo Jima Reunion and Symposium and working on his documentary. The homecoming parade occurred on Sunday, September 19 and drew a huge crowd with thousands of people, including politicians, celebrities, and the national press. I ran into Mrs. Basilone @ the VA when I need help navigating the system, She was there for me. I have found that the movie industry gets some aspects of Lenas actual life facts wrong. Ive met only recently the story of John Basilone and now, thanks to your words, even a little of the life of Lena. Semper Fi Marine, Well done rest in peace. Lena was a pioneer and an example many Marines can follow, I forgot to comment on you father. Thank you both for your service and sacrifice. Just thought her comment about not wanting to be a bother to anyone was a bit unusual..but am beginning to see that it was instead just very much in her character. 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. The John Basilone Memorial Parade is the only parade in the country honoring a World War II hero. They exhibited little gratitude when she gave the family the medal and insurance proceeds. This is probably why it occurred. She died in 1999 and was buried wearing her wedding ring. . The younger people have never learned this and it is a strange concept to them . I know that she and her husband are together today as they have been since her death. He along with many Marines fought like tigercats on that island.Eugene Sledge,Robert Leckie,and RV Burgin were heroes of that island .I too took part during the Vietnam era in combat in Korea(limited basis),Desert Storm,Bosnia(peacekeeper)and Iraq.The war of my father and the Marines was a much more intense combat.Those men rose to the occassion espeically John Basilone at Guadalcanal. Her favorite framed picture of Johnny always sat looking at her from atop her TV! The USS Basilone, was decommissioned in 1977. I was a medic in Desert Storm, Korea,Bosnia, and Iraq. There will not be another one like her and Terri Murphy Audie Murphys wife. or what its supposed to be. I love my Vietnam compadres and family. It's simply . What I have learned about John Basilone has been influential on how I did my job as an NCO. I have learned about what my dad and other Marines did through other Marines and Soldiers.who served with him. Both Eisenhower and Patton wanted to keep on the heels of the Germans, which supposedely justified using the Remagen Bridge. She had a U.S. Marine Corps sign on the walker, so I asked her if she was a Marine. I cannot imagine what physical pain he suffered and emotional pain Lena endured. By Jeff McDonald. I read the book Im staying with my boys. I am so proud to be from a military family. December 26, 2022 by Robin. He did things bigger than himself and didnt want the limelight. [22], Gunnery Sergeant Basilone's military awards include:[23]. And finally, while home on leave, Basilone predicts his own death on Iwo Jima. Its a warm joy to read the postings here. Gunnery Sergeant Basilone's buddies on Guadalcanal called him "Manila John" because he had served with the Army in the Philippines before enlisting in the Marine Corps. I felt both sides descended in to a hell that was what unimaginable to the human mind. We were proud to do this.You make our sacrifices bearable. The war was shortend by what they did. #ww2 The Pacific (2010)The Pacific Box Set - https://amzn.to/2War1EEThe Pacific: Hell Was an Ocean Away (Book) - https://amzn.to/3mbQg3WLink to main channel . The Greatest Generation. [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. If the name does not sound familiar, you may recognize her married name: Basilone. She helped a lot of vets navigate the system at LAs VA. I got a lot of insights on it from my high school teachers who fought as Marines in the Pacific. 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 . Age: 86 (3/7/1913 - 6/11/1999) Lena Mae Basilone's Relationships (1) Check out our New "Top 10 Worst . Famous John Basilone was born on November 4, 1916 in United States. What would make someone cut the connection so completely, yet state that she had the best?, Miss she had the man he was worth more than any material thing she had and her memory of him was enough for her. Sgt Lena sounds like a very strong and amazing woman. After Gable's third wife, Carole Lombard, died in 1942 and he returned from military service in 1944, he and Virginia were often seen at restaurants and nightclubs together. Although she was just. Basilone met his future wife, Lena Mae Riggi, who was a Sergeant in the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. Was never properly entered into her service records. He guided the heavy vehicle over the hazardous terrain to safety, despite heavy weapons fire from the Japanese. What an amazing lady. Parents Salvatore and Theadora Basilone. . Lena was raised in my hometown of Portland, OR. I guess being a diabetic with a full ankle replacement i would just be more of a problem for the military rather than a help. I salute her, Ms. Garner: I saw the PACIFIC documentary. She was never accepted by Johns family, as if she had taken him away from them. She was buried at a VA National Cemetery in Riverside, California wearing her wedding ring, having turned down being . NOTHING would have been too much trouble for me, but I honored her wishes to have her buried in the National Cemetary in Riverside, Ca. This is where the television show concludes and unfortunately for curious viewers, the show apparently did not include any follow-up information about John Basilones widow. Peleliu,Iwo Jima,Guadalcanal,New Britian,and Okinawa were among the toughest campaigns in tough conditions to fight.We had tough during VietNam with equal intensity.I marvel at these heroes, who adapted and overcame very tenacious and determined to die foes.This miniseries told it like it was. My father was in the Pacific with the 32nd and 81st. From her Find-A-Grave entry and her obituary: Lena Mae Riggi was born on March 7, 1913 in Portland, Oregon.