THE WALL OF FACES

This is his boot camp photo from Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Platoon 3025. He earned the title “U.S. Marine” on July 29, 1966.

Thank you for your service to our great country my brother. Semper Fi

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrances from your friend and fellow marine Joseph Brooks are moving and reflect his admiration and respect for you. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever…..

As the 4th of July approaches, your sacrifice, and the sacrifice of your brother Darwin are not forgotten.

God Bless You.

Semper Fi, Marine.

LCPL Marvin E. Gordon was an assistant 81mm mortarman serving with Headquarters & Service Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division. On September 17, 1967, LCPL Gordon and his unit came off the amphibious transport ship USS Ogden (LPD-5) and were carried ashore in LCM-8 "Mike Boats" during Operation Fortress Sentry. It was raining when they were deposited on the beach, and Gordon and the other mortarmen pulled on their ponchos to keep dry. The mortar squad was directed to ride on top of one of the Marine Amtrac amphibious tractors going inland with the battalion. Gordon wasn't feeling good and decided to lay down. The other men made room for him on top of the tractor. Gordon had his head covered with his poncho, keeping an opening so he could breath. During the trip he rolled over on his right side and his face got close to the exhaust of the Amtrac. None of the squad members noticed, as all were preoccupied and miserable from the rain. The next thing they saw was two corpsmen pulling Gordon's limp body off the vehicle and laying him on the ground. They administered CPR for a long time but were unable to revive Gordon. Unbeknownst to his companions, he had breathed in the exhaust and succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning. A helicopter came and Gordon’s remains were taken back to the Ogden for processing for return to the U.S. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and information provided by Joseph D. Brooks (April 2019)]

Dear Lcpl Marvin Gordon,
Thank you for your service as a Mortarman. It has been too long, and it's about time for us all to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.