Might you have ever been aboard the LPH-9 USS Guam in your time in the Corps?
My girlfriend's dad was CO for a couple years in the late 70s, and he considered his time on the Guam among his happiest (and one of his proudest accomplishments). He just passed away, may he rest in peace, and it warms my heart to think of the noble fraternity you and other good men represent.
Semper Fi, and Go Navy!
Any of you posters out there that like to read, and need something besides the latest John Grisham trash, check out some outstanding fiction that contains lots of historical fact and neat information: The Corps, by W.E.B. Griffin
It's a series of books, not yet done either, with maybe 7 or 8 volumes so far. Great stuff.
All of the Griffin series are excellent, so you might look for his others too.
Happy holidays to all good Americans.