Posted 12 years ago
fossilhunter
(38 items)
2 of my most prized military mementos. The belt buckle was issued to me after doing my first "The Manchu Miler", the 25 mile march commemorated the heroic efforts of the Soldiers of the 9th Infantry Regiment, who made an 85-mile march from Taku Bar for their assault on Tientsin in 1900 during the Boxer Rebellion in China. I never wore it, instead I bought another to wear. I still remember the first one I did, and the bloody blisters on the bottoms of my feet. I was privileged enough, "sarcasm intended", to complete 6 of these 25mile marches in full combat gear, while assigned to the unit. Not to mention all the conditioning marches of 6,8,12 miles prior to each one. Good ole days my 4th point of contact, (military speak for a$$). I was an Artillery Forward Observer attached to various units of the 9th Inf. Regt., at Ft Ord, CA and Ft Lewis, WA. Where ever my infantrymen went, I went with them in the same fashion, rucked up and on foot.
The ring was custom made by a member of the unit "who's name I can't remember". It is made from a US silver dollar. I wore this for some time before I put it away fearing more wear to it. It is soft and does not fare well being banged around.
Thanks Mustangtony and AR8Jason.
Great to see this!
I was also in support of the Manchus when they were part of the 7th Infantry Division (Light) at Ft Ord. I didn’t follow them to Ft Lewis, but was assigned to Korea from Ord. Like you I bought a second buckle for every day wear. I had the back of the one they gave me engraved while I was in Korea with the location and date I did my first Manchu Miler. It’s one of my most prized keepsakes as well.
Also like you, “direct support” of “light infantry” meant humping a ruck alongside the infantry, often at squad level, often at night, and always long distances. Great memories – now that it’s over.
Keep up the fire!
Thanks Chrisnp, I like the engraving idea. Taking it to the trophy shop in the morning while I have it out. I tip my mug in the air to you.
Hooah! Big Guns. A good FO makes life easier!
scott
Thanks for the loves scott and crabbykins.