I kind of figured Lenas headsone would not be in the location it was supposed to be. Marine God Puller: Sgt. Lena Basilone Pictures - Blogger I knew of only one other like her,Terry Murphy Audie Murphys wife.,he died in 1971. The Pacific - Death of John Basilone - YouTube I then years later caught the Gulf war, Korea, Bosnia and Iraq. 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. Marine Sergeant Lena Basilone was the wife of Medal of Honor winner John Basilone. She one of a kind,who we may never see the likes of again. I think this battlespooked him. Vera Keller | The Pacific Wiki | Fandom He enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1940, in Baltimore, Maryland. Virginia Grey is now deceased. Lena never forgot us and took care of us. I was a medic in Desert Storm, Korea,Bosnia, and Iraq. She even said when you had the best,who wants the rest especially after John was killed at Iwo Jima. The USS Basilone, was decommissioned in 1977. I write this with tears streaming as I think about the years of fun we shared together. It was my joy and privilege to be able to stay with her often in her home, to drive her for outings, groceries, shopping, doctor appointments or out to lunch or supper. His relatives basked in his reflected glory due to his MOH and widely reported heroism. Lena never remarried. However, in my research: Ive discovered several factual errors in the miniseries re: the episodes showing the courtship of John and Lena. John Basilone Obituary (1956 - 2023) - Legacy Remembers P.S. These Marines were the pioneers who created an Army I passed my torch unto as well as Marine Corps we have today. . I would think she should be buried beside John Basilone., I think Arlington has different requirements from other cemeteries. Brother & Sister. John Basilone's last battle - Los Angeles Times It also is sad that Lena had a short time with John. Lena Basilone returns her late husband's Medal of Honor to his family.From HBO's "The Pacific", episode 10 of 10. The war was shortend by what they did. Ric, thank you for pointing out Lena did not have John very long, in fact 7 months. I didnt realize that! When he requested again to return to the war, the request was approved. Thanks for the kind words. Peter J. Basilone, register of wills for Baltimore County and a former state legislator, died Thursday of liver cancer at his Towson residence. After completing middle school at age 15, he dropped out prior to attending high school. Thank You David. Many, including Virginia herself, expected them to marry . Their work will not be forgotten by all who were in contact with them. It was so my privilege to know Lena as my dear friend! [13], While stationed at Camp Pendleton, Basilone met his future wife, Lena Mae Riggi, who was a sergeant in the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. Although he appreciated the admiration, he felt out of place and requested to return to the operating forces fighting the war. I also remember my fallen comrades from high school, through Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm Iraq and Afghanistan. I am confident that they have been reunited and are now able to enjoy the chance to be together forever that the war took away from them. He was shot down over the Isle de Olerun in southern france,on thwway to plaster German airfields 3 months before Normandy, he fell on 3-27-44. Thank you both for your service to the greatest nation in the world. Also, just as deeply in awe of Johns heroism, his ultimate sacrifice, and Lenas continued devotion to him for over 50 years. Raritan to hold 35th annual John Basilone Memorial Parade Lena as a dear and precious friend of mine. If I myself was able to sacrifice myself to save even 2 people I had never met, believe me, I would do that. I want to honor her life and her lost story- but I cannot do that properly without personal testament. I have to just say Thank you to everyone who is in any branch of the military who reads this. My family is most Army AF Navy and yes Marines. 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. We need everyone on the line. We are seeking those who knew both John and Lena for the documentary. 1939. (source). the bridge stood for 10 days and collapsed? We spoke once, I am Lena Riggi BAsilones niece, Lost your number in Computer world of storms. Charles "Check" Tatum. The lady was happy to know that Lena was also a Portland Marine. We do a ceremony every wednesday for Vets without Families WE look straight out on her grave Rest in Peace Lena Basilone. Today, the Women's Reserve is no more. He is often discussed in Marine Corps history classes but no one ever mentions that his wife was a Marine too. John Basilone Biography - USS Basilone DDE/DD 824 By the end of the engagement, Japanese forces opposite the Marines' lines had been virtually annihilated. I too believe that a great degree of focus should have been given to Lena. I have never regret a moment of my 34 yrs of service. Being on the home front is just as valuable.When I was deployed, the letters,the care packages,and support for us kept us going.You people of the homefront keep our morale up more than you know. They were dumb animals who wanted . Her spirit still lives on.. She may have never forgiven him for going back into battle. 456 John Basilone died a painful death in the dirt near Motoyama Airfield Number One. Memorial day is coming upon us fast and its time to remember those we lost, and those who gave back much to veterans as did Lena. It doesnt go into as much depth as you have but it does give her closure in the series. They both are heros of mine. Basilone grew up in the nearby Raritan Town (now Borough of Raritan) where he attended St. Bernard Parochial School. She purchased a home in Lakewood, California and lived there for over 50 years until her death. It's simply . What was the most moving person I had found was that of Lena. In October, he and the two machine-gun sections under his command held off an attack by a numerically far superior Japanese force. My uncles in WW II served both in Europe and the Pacific. I wish i was around then. Eternal be his memory . Thank you for your time & Semper Fi, They were only married 7 months when John fell in battle within 2-4 hours of hitting the beach. To my knowledge, Lena never had long hair and I dont think in those days it was allowed by the WMS. Great Love Happens Once: The Enduring Story of John and Lena Basilone I am proud to speak to a member of John and Lenas family, Hi Vera, are you a relative of SGT Basilone? Lena was also very prominent in veterans affairs. They were married on July 7, 1944 and spent some time . Including the Medal of Honor, he has received many honors, including having base streets, military facilities, and two United States Navy destroyers named for him. With his unit pinned down, Basilone made his way around the side of the Japanese positions until he was directly on top of the blockhouse. I was never one to really say anything religious. I deserved it. Thank God she had someone. I know that she and her husband are together today as they have been since her death. They were good examples which I followed. I saw how ugly war gets, but I was a medic who had to be there to minimize the suffering of both sides. Here is all of the publicly released testimony by the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in one place. John Basilone (November 4, 1916 . BASILONE'S sections, with its gun crews, was put out of action, leaving only 2 men able to carry on. Hi Robin: I second what you said. Basilone fought. I know your comment is from many years ago, but I do hope this finds you well! Thanks for taking care of Lena, Stella: My dad was a veteran of the Pacific. [20], He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington, Virginia. While stationed at Camp Pendleton, he met his future wife, Lena Mae Riggi, who was a Sergeant in the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. Marine's heroism gave him legendary status. They are Medal of Honor RECIPIENTS. I cannot imagine what physical pain he suffered and emotional pain Lena endured. I love reading everything about ww2 and the greatest generation. Its great to learn more about the people behind the name. I wish I had an opportunity to know her more closely. Semper Fi. Lena M. Basilone died June 11, 1999, at the age of 86, and was buried at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California . The story of "Manila John" is part of every Marine's boot camp education. . 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. 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. When the last of the ammunition ran out shortly before dawn on the second day, Basilone, using his pistol and a machete, held off the Japanese soldiers attacking his position. What a debt we owe to that generation. I served from 73-2007 Vietnam era to Iraq. I suspect she feared if she was buried next to John, that might have dredged up old wounds with the family. [12] After the parade, Basilone toured the country raising money for the war effort and achieved celebrity status. Donald Basilone was the youngest sibling of the Basilone family, and brother of GySgt. Aside from numerous decorations, Basilone received other honors for his bravery. The heart broken widow bride - History of Sorts Basilone, [] Lena never remarried. John Basilone - Home of Heroes I found Lena in both the 1930 and 1940 censusand was very surprised and excited to learn that not only was she an Oregonian, shes was basically for me a local girl! She was raised and lived and worked in places less than an hours drive from where I live now! I appreciate Barbara Garners knowledge of Lena because I think she is a daughter to Lena. According to the funeral . May 10, 2013!! She was very selfless.and helped without expecting anything in return. Outmanned and with supplies low, Basilone and other marines on Guadacanal rally to repel superior Japanese forces. [1] His father, Salvatore Basilone, emigrated from Colle Sannita, in the province of Benevento, Italy and settled in Raritan. The Basilone Family and Raritan Learns of John's Death. My hero as well as her husband. I think she was the most selfless person. Sgt Lena Mae (Riggi) Basilone - Women Marines Association I tried my hardest through the years to get Lena to consent to be buried in Arlington Natioal Cemetary with her Johnny. The Basilones are a happy loving couple for the eternity. He was killed on February 19, 1945 in an exchange of heavy gunfire on Iwo Jima. Thank you Barbara Garner for your detailed comments about the wonderful Lena, and how you tried to get her to agree to be buried near her husband. She was an incredible human being and an even better marine, but before posting an article make sure you watch the entire series there were 2 more episodes after your supposed conclusion. Her parents were Italian immigrants. For his selfless dedication to his country, John was awarded the Purple Heart and Nary Cross posthumously. [5] In the Army, Basilone was initially assigned to the 16th Infantry at Fort Jay, New York, before being discharged for a day, reenlisting, and being assigned to the 31st Infantry.[6][7]. I needed urgent medical care at a VA medical center.Lena help cut much of the red tape get me in for care that very day.I have never forgotten what she did. I just saw this site today for the first time. Basilone, a member of the U.S. Marines, received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his action . If so where can I find it. Regards,Doc, Robin: I second a lot of Pauls comments. I salute everybody and those of us who survived. She had a very strong love for Gy.Sgt John Basilone even though their marriage was short,it was a very strong one. He rarely talked about WW2 like a lot of other vets. This may include medical bills, eviction notices, or other relevant documents. Representing The Fewer & ProuderGenerations of Service, SSG Richard"Rick"Doc" Borenstein,Medic Retired, ssg rick "doc " borenstein ret. Neither did they want to include she was the wife of Gunnery Sgt. A scrapbook compiled by the family of US Marine Sgt. . I see that your family had a lot of marines and sailors, as are some members of my family. John Basilone MoH. My uncles Dwight, Gil and Corky fought on Iwo. she had a positive impact on my life.. Lena left a positive legendary mark upon us, Hi Sabrina!! David: World War II in the Pacific was a war I hope humankind doesnt engage n again for a while. 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. Just three days after Lenas death a resolution was passed naming a 17 mile stretch of the San Diego (I-5) Freeway near Camp Pendleton Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone Memorial Highway. sabrinammessenger..WELL SAID!! After he was released from active duty, Basilone returned home and worked as a truck driver in Reisterstown, Maryland. I have had 7 combat campaigns to boot too Lena was not not much for publicity and kept a low profile. Celebrity Birthdays; Celebrity Deaths; . Again, Lena Basilone was in a league of her own and very much ahead of her time. Sgt Lena Mae (Riggi) Basilone - Women Marines Association Although the Veterans Administration offered to bury Lena in Arlington Cemetery near her husband, she refused the offer saying she didnt want to cause trouble for anyone. For his actions during the battle, Basilone received the United States military's highest award for valor, the Medal of Honor. I am a huge fan of him and his wife. Megan, I met Lena long after she served in the USMC. They fought the war professionally and with great courage and valor.Their service shall always honored and remembered. broward health medical center human resources phone number; steve watson obituary poplar bluff mo 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. Another USS John Basilone is Thank you for your insights. To Ssg Rick doc Borenstein almost every comment by you has included you and your family participation in various wars. I am glad that someone stepped in to be family for her. She is in town for the Iwo Jima Reunion and Symposium and working on his documentary. if anyone knows about a documentary about them please let me know? 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. On the night of October 24/25, 1942, some 3,000 Japanese troops attacked the U.S. Marines defending the Lunga perimeter and Henderson Field. I learned from others like uncles, friends and comrades. He then attacked with grenades and demolitions, single-handedly destroying the entire strong point and its defending garrison. I was a busy medic and many days circumstances precluded writing.We do overlook the homefront but we have better communication, specifically emails now.and Skype.Lena and John would like these changes.I served as a medic to many of the combat arms so I hope my insights help. 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 wish i could have known her. Basilone so deeply loved only makes that respect more profound. 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). The civilian man initially had no pulse, and bystanders told the Marine they assumed he was dead. 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. Basilone was born in his Italian American parents' home on November 4, 1916, in Buffalo, New York. On October 24, 1942, John Basilone was supporting the war effort in the Lunga Area. [9][10] As the battle went on, ammunition became critically low. The young people in our church adored her even though she was tough with them. Such a self-effacing woman she must have been, all the while doing so much good for others! Lena always had her wallet full of Johnnys pictures. Basilone in his personal humility and unwavering dedication to the men who served with him, became a true hero of the American people during World War II."-John Basilone. Lena Basilone returns John's Medal of Honor - YouTube In a fierce frontal attack with the Japanese blasting his guns with grenades and mortar fire, one of Sgt. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of John R Basilone to pay them a last tribute. 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. Lena passed away in 1999 at age 86 and is buried at Riverside National Cemetery at plot 50 grave 5557 with the epitaph "wife of Sgt John Basilone USMC". But only small details.for instance, at that time all lady marines that worked in the kitchen wore the mens fatigues, but not the ones popular today. I am pleased know of a member of John Basilones family. This is what Memorial Day or Decoration Day is all about. RegardsDoc P.S. , Brad Garrett Wife Height, Is A Mobile Home Considered Real Property In Florida, Animated Music Videos . We are a better world because of them Regards, Doc. Thank You Robin. We talked about her experiences. The Headstone indicated in the photograph, is not The Headstone at Her Grave. If possible I would like to speak with you about setting up an introduction so that his niece can speak with you. My dad was in the Pacific on Guam, the Marshalls and Peleliu. My father was on Peleiliu as a medic and thats what I think spooked him and he finished the war in Hawaii. We both turned down comissions to be officers many times in spite of field commanders and general recommendations. Leatherneck November 1988. We will be running around all weekend for various events with the Commandant of the Marine Corps and of course multiple Iwo Jima survivors. Larry, Thanks for doing what you are doing this. Great Love Happens Once: The Enduring Story of Marines John and Lena She helped many veterans at the VA Medical center where she lived. 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. Thats typical. She married only one man my father Dr. Milton K Borenstein MD. Fortunately, I have known a lot of Lenas who I served with. In later life she served at the VA ;and everyone she came into contact with. Giving Johns Medal of Honor to his Mom and Dad was a selfless and gracious gift . Although she was just. Hi Paul: I was a young kid when Vietnam went down. We were proud to do this.You make our sacrifices bearable. Thank you!!! When the heavy .30 . One of her few, if not only, public appearances after Johns death was about nine months after he died. Whether Geneva convention rules exist or not, you use weapons or do what it take to win.. May 26, 2016 4:29 PM PT. The price of freedom is not cheap. She is truely my hero as well as her husband. Famous John Basilone was born on November 4, 1916 in United States. Died February 19, 1945, Iwo Jima, Japan Spouse Lena Mae . What I have learned about John Basilone has been influential on how I did my job as an NCO. When she reached adulthood she left Oregon to attend business school. After John Basilone's death, his wife Lena never remarried. A piece of their son to cling to , to assuage their pain . Jesse:Do not ever feel disappointed that you could not serve.We volunteered as did the Basilones.
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