Spot Report

Visit the MCITTA website at: www.mcitta.org

In This Issue

From the COB 2State of the Association 3Urgent Fury (A Personal View) 4Donations 7Our Monument 8

9 Fundraising10 In Memoriam11 Current Notes12 7th Gathering Information15 8th Gathering Information

c. 1964Cpl Joey Oliveras (2nd ITU), Cpl (FNU) Mikola (2nd ITU), GySgt C. E. Blanz(1st ITU), and Sgt Paul Hernandez (2nd ITU) at the airfield on Grenada showoff a "liberated" bottle of Cuban rum. (Operation Urgent Fury – 1983)

OPERATION URGENT FURY

The

Journal of the Marine Corps Interrogator Translator Teams AssociationJournal of the Marine Corps Interrogator Translator Teams Association

Spot ReportVolume VII, Issue 2 Winter 2009-10

Story Page 4

2 The Spot ReportJanuary 2010

From the COBVolume VIII, Issue 2– Winter 2009-10

Managing Editor Harry J. Todd, Jr.

Editor and Layout Design Mitchell Paradis - mitchcan@eastlink.caProduction and Mailing Harry J. Todd, Jr.Editorial Review Committee Chuck Legeyt Jack ParkerWebsite Master Jeff Smith - GunneyJay@sssnet.com The Spot Report is the official journal of theMarine Corps Interrogator Translator TeamsAssociation (MCITTA). Featured articles arethe sole opinion of the writer(s) and do notreflect or imply endorsement by the MCITTA. Articles not accompanied with a byline havebeen written by the editors and do not reflectthe official policy of the MCITTA unlessotherwise noted. All submitted material is reviewed by theEditorial Review Committee for appropriate-ness in accordance with the guidelines of goodjournalistic practice. The Spot Report is published tri-annually.Deadlines for submission are 30 December, 1May, and 1 September of each year. The Editordoes not assume any responsibility forunsolicited manuscripts, photographs or othermaterials. All items to be returned must beaccompanied by S.A.S.E. The editorial staff retains the right to acceptor reject and edit any material submitted. Address all material for publication to:

Mitchell P. ParadisPO Box 107Riverport, NS B0J 2W0

CANADA Please note: Canadian address requiresadditional postage. See your Post Office. Youmay contact the Editor by: Phone at: (902) 764-2070 or Email at: mitchcan@bwr.eastlink.ca Digital submission of material via email ispreferred. Submit all photos and graphics inhigh resolution JPG format.

© 2010 Copyright – All Rights Reserved.

No portion of this publication may bereprinted without permission of the MCITTA.

Letters to the Editor are invited. Please provide all changes of address tothe Editor. You may also contact MCITTAat the National Headquarters located at:

MCITTA917 Raughley Hill Rd

Harrington, DE 19952-3167

The Spot ReportThe MCITTA News Journal

The MCITTA is a nonprofit; war veteran’sorganization and all donations are fullydeductible under 501(c)(19) of the IRS.

The seventh annual Gathering is over anddeclared by all hands to have been well

done, enjoyable and an unqualified success.This in no small part is because of the effortsof our host and hostess, Jim and LynneRiemer, and the able assistance of any andall they asked to help—good food, wellplanned venues and good friends. As witheach Gathering there were a couple of newattendees to experience the camaraderie.

This Gathering was a transitional yearfor MCITTA. It is hoped the change willsatisfy our functional and administrativeneeds for continued success. The memberspresent at our business meeting elected totransition from an elected slate of governingofficers to the establishment of a Board ofDirectors. The Board comprises six membersand they are: the Chairman of the Board,Harry Todd; Vice Chairman of the Board,Vince Burdelski; Chief Financial Officer, JackParker; three board members, AdministrativeExecutive Assistant, Felix Conde andmembers Mike Bianchino and Howard Kahn.All those individuals previously appointedto functionary positions such as Historian,Officer of Service, Service Officer and thevarious committee Chairmen shall retain theirduties, positions and authority and servingunder the aegis and pleasure of the Board.

The transition continued with aunanimous decision to electronically publishour Spot Report. This was based upon mereeconomics and the added flexibility toinclude a myriad if items electronically thatare cost prohibitive in a hard copy. I ask allhands receiving this media to update theirregular USPS address and e-mail addresses.I ask and encourage every member to forwardthis data to the appropriate place, sodesignated herein and via other requestsforwarded to members. This plea for currencyfollows a one time letter already forwardedand a plea within these pages. Following theissue of this final plea for updatedinformation all items will be electronicallytransmitted. It was further decided to keepmembers more informed via the issuance ofE-Bulletins.

The business meeting participantsunanimously agreed to take on theconsiderable challenge of raising sufficientfunds to make the monument previouslyannounced in the Summer 2009 Spot Reporta reality. Further and detailed information

regards this effort will be published asreceived. A committee consisting of VinceBurdelski, Jim Haskins, Mitch Paradis andHarry Todd was established to monitor andguide this effort to fruition. Our accepted goalis to raise $35,000.00 as quickly as possibleto make this dream come true. Guidelines onmethods of seeking funding have beenforwarded in order that any and all who getout and seek funding will act in a uniformmanner and not be at cross purposes withthe efforts of others. It is not an impossibilityto raise this amount of money rapidly.

Of paramount importance is our 2010Gathering. It was determined we would holdthe Gathering in October 2010 (no specificdates yet) in Tampa Bay, Florida. Due tocircumstances beyond our immediate controlwe decided to establish an alternativelocation of San Antonio, Texas. Notificationwill be made prior to the end of December2009 via E-Bulletin and on the web pagewhether we will be Gathering in Florida or inTexas. One of the more unique proposals putforth for 2011 was one that we unite ourGathering with the Marine Corps Ball. Worktoward that effort is being explored by acouple of excited members. This was felt tobe a brilliant idea that would allow everyoneto combine two wonderful events into oneoccasion. Further information will bepublished as discovered.

Several items that require action werenot brought to fore because of timeconstraint but will be addressed via Boardfunction and the information will bedisseminated as appropriate. The BoardMembers and I are dedicated to the successof MCITTA and I am once again pleased ifnot without trepidation to be trusted withthe leadership and management of ourorganization. I ask for your cooperation tothe same degree that I had for my first termas the Team Commander. I said then and stillbelieve our success rests on the membershipeven if the responsibility falls in the lap ofthe one leading.

The Board Members and I look forwardto making MCITTA an organization to whichyou can be proud to be a member.

Semper Fidelis,

Harry J. ToddChairman of the Board

3Volume VIII, Issue 2 January 2010

State of the Association

Board of Directors – 2009Howard Kahn; Felix Conde; Mike Bianchino; Harry Todd (Chairman); Vince Burdelski

I want to begin this article in the same fashion as I beganone in 2007 with a heartfelt, “THANK YOU” one and all forthe support you have freely provided. You have solidified

MCITTA’s success by these actions.With progress, MCITTA has not rested on satisfac-

tion with the status quo. Your leadership has seen thebenefits of reorganization and has moved forward toward thefuture with the establishment of a Board of Directors. Thisconcept will allow for more efficient and flexible managementof the Association. The Constitution and By-Laws havebeen corrected and are available for preview on our web site(mcitta.org). The website itself has been reworked and hasa new feature with a password-protected link for privatecorrespondence exclusively among the members.

As an organization, MCITTA has opted to “HonorThose Who Have Honored Us” by unanimously acceptingthe challenge of erecting a monument in Semper FidelisPark at the Marine Corps Museum in Quantico, VA. Thismonument not only honors the nine practitioners of the art ofinterrogation lost to the rigors of combat it also honors ourlost MOS. The monument once erected will make MCITTAunique among all intelligence organizations. Phase II(soliciting funds) is in full swing. Our CFO reports donationsare arriving slowly but steady. I am encouraged this projectwas so willingly adopted. I have no concern it will notsucceed. Our membership is sufficient to retrieve the$35,000 to $40,000 dollars necessary to make this a reality.

The one area everyone is most interested in is ourGathering for 2010. It will be held in Tampa Bay, Floridabetween 17 and 23 in October. From the initial reports itpromises to rank very high on the enjoyable scale. Detailswill be made available as they are known via the E-Bulletin.

We remain solvent if not wealthy. Our coffers arenot empty but as usual along with your generosity willremain full enough for a safety cushion if needed. The onearea along with the funding of the monument we need toaddress is corporate sponsorship. At present only one suchentity has been procured and the economy has forced thatbusiness to casualty status.

We have an ongoing problem withmaintaining current contact data and therecent plea to our membership to maketheir contact info current has beensuccessful. But I remind you all if youhave not addressed this matter pleasedo so. This becomes all the moreimportant as MCITTA is shifting to an all-elec-tronic means of communication. Again I thank you all foryour diligence in this matter.

I want to ask everyone to visit our website and linkto the History site posted by our Historian. Our one pur-pose as stated in our mission statement was the writing ofour Unit History. Without your active participation yourplace in the annals of the Marine Corps will not be knowexcept by those who revise history as they think it shouldbe. Do not leave your story to others to write as a contrivedaccount. Be bold and address it from a standpoint ofpersonal experience. It will not be quick or at all easy but itwill be correct and contribute to the whole.

To everyone who participated in the link to mysurvey in the 04-09 E-Bulletin, I offer my thanks and reportthat the responses contributed to an answer reflective of themajority has been sent to the leadership of MCIA. We mayexpect to see a greater degree of cooperation in the future.

Lastly I want to remind everyone in 2010 we will bein Tampa Bay. Paul (Hippolito) Hernandez and his volunteercommittee are looking forward to a great turnout. Plan nowto enjoy what you all have come to expect.

As a reminder you do not have to be an author tosubmit articles for your Spot Report. The more articles themore interesting and flexible the Spot Report will be.

Be mindful because of the reorganization, the Boardof Directors will be looking for members to step up and fillthe positions on the Board every year. Don’t shy away, takecontrol and seize the opportunity to lead and contribute. Inso doing also know the support of the members will makethe time served enjoyable and practically painless. TheAssociation is behind you all the way.

From the Chairman of the Board, Harry J. Todd

4 The Spot ReportJanuary 2010

Legacy Feature

Operation Urgent Fury was a US-led invasion of Grenada, triggered by a military coup, whichousted a brief revolutionary government. The invasion, which commenced at 0500 on 25 October1983, was the first major operation by the US military since the Vietnam War.

Designated Joint Task Force 120, the US force included elements of each military service andmultiple special operations units. The invading forces encountered about 1,500 Grenadian soldiersand about 700 Cubans. Also present were 60 advisors from the Soviet Union, North Korea, EastGermany, Bulgaria, and Libya. Some of the “construction workers” were actually a detachment ofCuban Military Special Forces and combat engineers.

Fighting continued for several days and nearly eight thousand soldiers, sailors, airmen, andMarines participated in Urgent Fury along with 353 Caribbean allies of the Organization of EasternCaribbean States (OECS). US forces sustained 19 killed and 116 wounded; Cuban forces sustained 25killed, 59 wounded and 638 combatants captured. Grenadian forces casualties were 45 killed and 358 wounded;at least 24 civilians were killed.

Following the US victory, Grenada’s Governor-General announced the resumption of the constitution and appointed a newgovernment. US forces remained in Grenada after combat operations finished in December. Elements remaining included militarypolice, Special Forces, and a specialized intelligence detachment.

Today, October 25 is a national holiday in Grenada, called Thanksgiving Day, to commemorate this event.

OPERATION URGENT FURY – Island of Grenada-1983

An anecdotal and personal report By: Jose (Joey) Oliveras, USMC (Ret)2nd ITU, 2nd Marine Division

As every good sea story begins, “This isno _ _ _ _!” On Sunday, October 25,

1983, the news of the attack at the BeirutMarine HQ was flashing across televisionsets since early that morning. Just like everyMarine at Camp Lejeune, I was glued to theset watching those images of carnage andthinking, “Payback is going to be amother……”

The following morning I reported to the2nd Interrogation Translation Unit operatingunder Headquarters Company, HQBn, 2nd

Marine Division lead by MajGen Al Gray. Theunit was under the control of the DivisionACofS G-2, LtCol DelGrosso and the G-2Chief was MGySgt George Simpson. TheITU OIC was Capt Homero Lopez and theNCOIC was MGySgt Beatty. I had justarrived the previous Saturday after drivingfrom Ft. Huachuca, AZ along with SgtHipolito (Paul) Hernandez. We had justcompleted the Army Interrogation courseand I was returning to Camp Lejeune and the2nd ITU where I had been OJT prior to school.

During the check-in process from TAD,the mood at the Division and in the wholecamp was somber, but, at the same time, fastin tempo. I remember an interview by a local

TV station with General Gray. They askedhim questions regarding what was the moodof the Marines under his command at thepresent moment, since the press had reportedthe Marines were “sitting ducks” previously.General Gray responded, “I have a truck loadof volunteers eager to go.” And, by God,yes, he did have them, and I wanted to beone of those!

That Monday evening, while at myresident and while watching the news at 1800,the phone rang. It was MGySgt Beatty andthe conversation went exactly as follows:

“Cpl Oliveras this Master GunnerySergeant Beatty speaking. Get in your 782-Gear and be here by 2100. Who else livesaround you?”

“Sgt Paul Hernandez and SSgt NelsonDel Valle, Top”, I replied.

“Get Del Valle over here, too, by 2100.Anything else you can think of?”

“Top, we just arrived and are still in theprocess of checking-in. We have not beenable to get to the armory, yet, and wererequired to turn in our .45’s because we wereTAD for more than 30 days…”

“That has been taken care of,” Topinterrupted. “What else?”

“Top, also, we were required to turn inour flack jackets and we have not receivedthe new ones, yet.”

“It has also been taken care of;anything else?”

“Not that I can think of…. That’s all,Top.”

“OK. See you at 2100 with Del Valle.”At this time the “Pucker-Factor” was

Zero. Sweet Mother of Jesus, I’m on myway! I told my wife (first of three), who wasalso a Marine, to get all my 782-Gear anduniforms into the living room so I could pack;meanwhile, I was on my way to advise DelValle to be ready. I found Nelson in thedriveway at his residence, getting ready togo to the movies with his family. I called himaside and relayed Top’s message. I quicklyretrograded from the area because I did notwant to hear from my fellow islander, hisPuerto Rican wife, that I just spoiled theirevening.

By the time I returned to my residence,Sgt Paul Hernandez and his wife were there.They just happened to come by to invite mywife and me for dinner. I explained to Paulthe phone call I had just received and myinstructions. He helped me pack my gear

5Volume VIII, Issue 2 January 2010

and helped to raid my kitchen cabinets forcanned goods. We packed everything in hiscar, as he had volunteered to take Nelsonand me to the base, so as to leave our POV’swith our wives. What I really believe is thathe wanted to find out why he was not part ofthe movement— of course.

Upon arrival at the ITU at 2056, I wasimmediately sent to the motor pool for theteam jeep and the air alert trailer from supply.(The Unit kept two trailers at the ready withmount-out gear.) As I returned, I saw SSgtCharlie Light who just got back from Beirut acouple of months before after being injuredat the embassy bombing. As he was leavingthe area with the other jeep I yelled at him,“See you in Beirut!” to which he replied, “No,you’re going to Grenada!” Gra…wha??What the…..?

As I entered the building, I passed theOIC/NCOIC offices where I gave thumbs upto Top Beatty regarding the jeep, to whichhe acknowledged with, “Oliveras, do youspeak Cuban?” I answered, “Sí, Jefe” whilelooking at Capt Lopez and WO Alvarez. TheTop dismissed me with a wave and Iproceeded to the 10th ITT, the Spanish andPortuguese language team. There, I foundGySgt Winfrey, the Team Commander,passing the word to SSgt Del Valle, SgtHernandez, and Cpl Mikola.

I mentioned to the Gunny what SSgtLight yelled at me, and Top Beatty’slanguage question. Gunny then said thatthe Air Alert Battalion, along with the Frenchand Arabic speakers were on their way toLebanon, but we were going to Grenada, anisland of the Lesser Antilles, where someCubans were making some trouble. Well…time to repack and take out the cold weathergear and break out the jungle boots.

Next day, Tuesday, we were flown inGeneral Gray’s “Huey” from behind DivisionHQs to the New River Air Station, while WOAlvarez and Capt Lopez along with GySgtWible were talking to General Gray, along withLtCol Del Grosso and MGySgt Simpson. Iwas tasked with loading the packs aboardthe helo. As I reaching for a pack, anothercame flying at me and almost knocked medown. It was the pack of no other thanGeneral Gray himself. I was given the “suicideseat” on the port side and as we were takingoff, General Gray stood at attention, lookeddirectly into my eyes and saluted me! (PuckerFactor Zero, again.)

We boarded a C-130 at New River,loaded with replacements for the two Cobra

gunships that were shot down in Grenada,which was unknown to us at the time. Aftera JATO take-off, we were on our way to ourfirst combat as interrogators.

Approaching the island, the plane flewtactical approach and we were given 20, 10,and 5-minute warnings, accordingly. On thefirst warning from the Crew Chief, a captainfrom the helo wing opened an ammo can andproceeded to issue bandoleers of 5.56 roundsto the mechanics and boxes of .38 rounds tothe pilots. It was then it dawned on me thatwe were not issued any ammo back inLejeune. I gestured to the captain if he hadany .45 ammo to which he gestured back,NO! I looked at WO Alvarez and GySgtsWible and Winfrey and received the sameanswer— NO! I’m about to land in a combatzone and even the air wing mechanics haveammo while I have only canned goods tothrow— Pucker Factor ZERO Minus 1!

As the plane landed and taxied, weexited and converged on a dirt mound nottoo distant from the C-130. The crew gotthose helos out in record time and the planewas already taxing to take off before we werefinished catching our breath.

WO Alvarez found some Army troopswho were nearby and asked where thenearest headquarters was located. Thesoldier turned around and pointed to the farend of the runway and said, “You see thatblue light waaaaay over there? That’s thenearest HQ that I know of.”

WO Alvarez then turned to me, “CplOliveras, go there and tell them— ‘TheMarines have landed—‘ and find out wherethe interrogation compound is located.” Ireminded him that “I/We” had no ammo, andper the Army trooper, shooting was still goingon around the perimeter (as if we had notalready arrived at that conclusion due to the

sounds of rifle and machine gun fire.) I alsoreminded him the C-130 had no suppressivenoise gear and I was sure whoever was outthere knew we had landed. His answer was,“Do the best you can” to which I answered,“Request permission to drop my pack so Ican RUN faster from here to “waaaaay” overthere, Sir.” (Pucker Factor Zero –2.) TheGunner agreed and SSgt Del Valle requestedto accompany me. As we began our “run” Isaid, “I guess we’ll have to use our .45s as aboomerang.” Nelson dropped his pack, andwe took off. The relative speed of our“commute” increased every time we heardshots to the point that the heels of our bootswere hitting the back of our helmets, whichtends to happen while running and trying toshove your ass inside your steel pot. (PuckerFactor Zero –3.)

Upon reaching the Army headquarters,we encountered an Army Colonel and Ismartly regurgitated WO Alvarez’s message.The Colonel said the POW compound wason the hill overlooking the airfield but he hadno one to escort us, and the area betweenthe airfield and the compound was notsecure. He also advised that if we could getthe rest of our team to our present location(which happened to be the terminal of theairport the Cubans were building), we couldhold up for the night and he would providean escort the following morning.

SSgt Del Valle and I were debating whenand how to go back to Mr. Alvarez’s locationwhen I spotted an Army truck traveling inthe direction we just came from, “waaaaay”over there. I flagged down the truck and thedriver said he was delivering ammo to thesoldiers at that location. I asked if he couldmake contact with the Marines there and givethem a lift back to the terminal headquartersand to bring our packs with them. He agreed.

As we say the truck departing, thePucker Factor was returning to normal. Weactually felt good about ourselves and Iremembered I still had a bag of French Friesin my cargo pocket since lunch back at CampLejeune when we were told to move out.Nelson and I found an area and sat down onsome boxes and more or less relaxed whileeating cold fries when it started to drizzle.We got our ponchos from our butt packswhile Nelson came out with a pack of Koolcigarettes that we lit under our ponchos. Wewere really relaxing with our Kools and coldfries while keeping an eye out for thereturning truck with the rest of our team.

Cpl Joey Oliveras displays a captured AK-47while enjoying a "liberated" Cuban cigar. Thefortunes of war.

(Continued on Next Page)

6 The Spot ReportJanuary 2010

As we were enjoying our smokes, asoldier approached and told us to not smoke.I replied our glowing cigarettes were maskedby the poncho and that we were Marinesand to bug off. He said OK and as he wasleaving he said it wasn’t the light that was ofconcern, it was where we weresitting. I shoved my head undermy poncho and flicked my Zippoand was able to read the stencilon the crate we were sitting on:“EXPLOSIVES — No OpenFlame — Handle with Care”(We’re back again to PuckerFactor Zero.)

Soon the truck returned(Thanks Army) with theremainder of the team, my pack,and all my “goodies”— all waswell, again. We spent the nightin relative security. Next morningthe Colonel came by andintroduced himself to WOAlvarez. Part of theirconversation centered on the factwe came with only the gear onour backs and had no vehicles.The colonel said, “Anything outthere that doesn't say ‘82nd

Airborne’ and you know how tostart it and drive it is yours; thisis no man’s land.” WO Alvarezonce again turned to me and said,“Oliveras get us some wheels.Del Valle, help him.”

We were then loaded intothree Army jeeps and taken to thePOW compound. The camp OIC,an Army CWO who received uswith lots of enthusiasm.Following his operation brief, Iwas reminded, along with DelValle, to secure sometransportation, rations andammo. As we departed, andmaking sure I was out of earshot,I said to Nelson, “Man, this guythinks just because we are PuertoRican we can just steal a vehiclein the middle of a combat zoneand s_ _ _ some ammo andrations at the same time.” Nelsonanswered with a “Hummm!” sowe proceeded to walk back to the airportterminal area where I had “observed/targeted” a white jeep earlier that morning

with a logo in Spanish on the doors.We located the jeep parked between

some cargo pallets. There were some U.S.Air Force personnel working nearby withtheir backs to the jeep. In my pocket I founda piece of wire along with my pocket knifeand was making the wire ready to be used tostart the vehicle when I noticed three things:

1. The logo on the door read “Departamentode Trabajo ” (Department of Works)obviously from the Cubans, which reminded

me of the Colonel’s admonition, “…if itdoesn’t say 82nd Airborne…”; 2. The steeringwheel was on the right side; and, 3. The keyswere in the ignition!

We got in and I drove in reverse whilepopping the clutch in order to clear the areaquickly. As we drove off, Nelson looked atthe Air Force personnel and said, “They're

waving.” I answered, “Well, waveback.”

We had wheels. Now weneeded some chow and ammo— so,on our way we drove to the 82nd

Airborne Division ammo depot andasked if they had any .45 cal ammo?Well, they had everything from a.38 caliber all the way up to 155Howitzer shells, but not a singleround of .45!

We then drove by the rationsissue point and instead of askingfor the 24 meals Mr. Alvarezdirected, I asked for 12 cases of C-Rations. All that the Army supplyguy wanted was a signature— noproblem. Now we headed for thePOL, gassed up our new jeep, andgot an extra five gallons in the Jerrycan we found along the way next tosome cammie netting, which was ontop of our White Rover that by nowwas looking very “tactical” with ashovel and pick on the hood, whichwe found near an Army 81 mmMortar position. (The occupantswere looking the wrong way. Gearadrift— it must be a gift!) The fueldepot trooper only wanted asignature, so once again “PvtMcCatelly” signed the logbook.

After our productiveacquisition run, we returned to thePOW camp thinking about themedals we were sure we had alreadyearned just on this run alone!

Three days later, GySgt Blanzand SSgt Cancino arrived from theCamp Pendleton Spanish Team.Gunny Blanz was a classmate just aweek prior at Ft. Huachuca and SSgtCancino was a “role player”instructor at the same time.

The following day, SgtHernandez arrived from Lejeunewith “needed equipment” that

MGySgt Beatty thought we might need. The “specialized” equipment consisted

of one manual typewriter and a case of typing

(Continued from page 5)URGENT FURY

Cuban Terminal at the airfield in Grenada.

Detainee and POW Compound

Cuban beans and rice in the compound

>>

7Volume VIII, Issue 2 January 2010

>> paper. Not one pack of smokes or any“pogey” bait— with the exception of threecheeseburgers Hernandez brought along forthe flight.

While at the POW compound, the ArmyCWO, really liked the way we worked so gaveus the most difficult prisoner, not only Cubanbut Grenadans as well. Instead of doing one-on-one interrogations, Nelson and myselfread the EEI’s and PIR’s posted daily andwith the permission of the Camp OIC, wentinside the wire and had lunch with thedetainees. This was such a sacrifice for ussince we had to eat Cuban food of yellowrice, black beans, and slow roasted pork,instead of our C-Rations. (Right!)

Soon, a request came from the Armyfor two Marine Interrogators to be attachedto an Army infantry battalion. During thosedays, the Army didn’t practice the conceptof mobile interrogator teams operating to aninfantry battalion. SSgt Cancino, a Vietnamvet, and I volunteered and were selected.(Another “Rican” team.) This time GySgt

Blanz gave me his M-16 to take along. Wespent the next two weeks attached to the504th Parachute Infantry Brigade and did quitea bit of tactical interrogations and screenedall civilian “walk-ins”.

There are too many stories of thatassignment to be mentioned here. We flewback by helo the same day we werescheduled to take the “freedom bird” backto the States. Arriving at Point Salenes, wherethe airport was, I presented two AK-47’s wecaptured to the 1st ITU and the 2nd ITU fordisplay as war souvenirs. WO Alvarez toldme that I was going to be meritoriouslypromoted to Sergeant. (My promotion didnot materialize until three years later.)

We left the island and arrived at PopeAFB co-located to Ft. Bragg, NC at aboutzero-dark-thirty. WO Alvarez said he wascalling for a helicopter to pick us up. Nextday after breakfast, and after we had spentthe night at the Pope AFB terminal cafeteriadrinking beer waiting for the “helo”, two vansshowed up and took us back to Lejeune.

After all was said and done we didrealize that, yes, we were the first MarineCorps Interrogators assigned in directsupport to combat operations since theVietnam War. And I guess that’s not bad fora 21-year old Marine Corporal that graduatedInterrogation School five dayes before beingdeployed to put into practice that newlyacquired set of skills. I was a Combat VeteranMarine Interrogator!

RATIONE AUT VI

2nd ITU Marine Interrogators:WO Alvarez Sgt Del ValleGySgt Wible Sgt HernandezGySgt Winfrey Cpl OliveraSSgt Manlove Cpl Mikola1st ITU Marine Interrogators:GySgt BlanzSSgt Cancino

Donations

Platinum LevelAl & Becky Kent – In Memoriam for SSgt John Schindler

Jeff & Regina (Jinx) Smith – In Honor of All Veterans

Gold LevelMitch & Joan Paradis – In Memoriam: BGen Pete Rowe and CWO Pete Caudillo

Mike & Mary Ellen Bianchino – In Memoriam for All Fallen Interrogators

Oliver J. Hickok – In Memoriam of Chuck Chlarson

Howard & Jenny Young Jim & Victoria Haskins Jack & Janelle ParkerJim & Lynne Riemer Luke & Kathy Thoma Harry & Lois ToddDaniel Z. Boyd Felix Conde Vincent Burdelski

Silver LevelJim & Sherrie Massie – In Memoriam of Chuck Chlarson

Howie & Mary Ann Kahn Harold & Judy Weist Jim & Barbara Tortorici

Bronze Level Silas Downs – In Memoriam of SSgt Ronald J. Garcia

Peter Halle William Harrison

The Fund Drive for 2009 realized $3320.00 in support for the administration and continuation of yourMCITTA. Special appreciation and thanks are extended to the members who contributed at the

levels indicated above. Support for the Association can be made at any time by contacting theMCITTA Treasurer, Jack Parker at: usmcjack2@comcast.net

LEGACY PLEDGES

8 The Spot ReportJanuary 2010

LegacyOur MonumentHonoring Those Who Honor You

From Harry J. Todd, USMC (Ret)Chairman of the Board of Directors

– On the obelisk a gilded EGA superimposed on a laurelwreath. Icons of the CITT, ITT, and ITP/ITU with the USMCCore Values. On the black marble the inscription: "Dedicatedto the Honor and Service of Marine Combat Interrogatorsand Interpreters of Enemy Prisoners of War in Combat Sup-port to the Fleet Marine Forces" followed by the war eras,Vietnam, Lebanon, Gulf War, Iraq. The MCITTA logo with adedication inscription. On the base is the division patches ofthe division supported by Marine Interrogators.

OBVERSE VIEW

– On the reverse side of the obelisk is a portrait of a kneelingMarine with rifle and pack in memoriam along with the dedica-tion: "We are their witness; for without a witness they shall beforgotten." On the black marble is the list of "Our Fallen Broth-ers" from Vietnam, Lebanon to the Iraq War with a Gold Starfollowed by the words of Abraham Lincoln from the GettysburgAddress: "...from these honored dead we take increaseddevotion to that cause for which they gave the last full mea-sure of devotion..."

REVERSE VIEW

As the Association Chairman andthe Chair of the Monument FundRaising Committee I am making thisplea. According to the records wenumber approximately 260 associationmembers. I am certain that each andevery one of us can afford a mere .31cents per day over the course of a year.This is a pittance when consideredagainst the whole. That would amountto a little more than $100.00 permember to see this project to a suc-cessful conclusion. In fact if we beardown the majority of the amountneeded could be collected prior to our

Tampa Gathering and have the Monu-ment in place in 2011.

Be part of a project even if youcannot attend our Annual Gatherings.Contribute the $100.00 and show yourMarine colors of Fraternity and Commit-ment. This is your project and shouldbe the result of your efforts. This isyour opportunity to be unique within theIntelligence community. Now is thetime to show our solidarity. Do not sitback and allow a few to bear the bruntof this burden. Collectively we canmake this happen and “The Few, TheProud, The Marines” should be all

inclusive or it loses its meaning. Justbecause you may have hung up youruniform for the last time there is noreason to forsake our motto “SEMPERFIDELIS”.

Many have contributed and doneso at a greater level than the $100.00 Iam asking for here. To those members Isay, Thank You. If you feel you cannotdonate the entire amount all at onetime, spread it out over the year. If eventhat is difficult, at least contribute whatyou deem to be appropriate.

9Volume VIII, Issue 2 January 2010

FundraisingFund raising is both rewarding as it is

challenging. It is indeed emotionallysatisfying to raise funds for a worthycause. Sometimes no matter how good theintentions, funds can be exceptionally tightand contacts need the help of informedindividuals to support organizationalcauses.

Fund raising strategy varies. Puttingthe best possible effort in the cause isinstrumental to its success. Strategiesrange from simple to complicated.However, it is best to always apply thesimplest techniques to provide the bestreturns. Fundraisers should be kept simplebut that does not mean it is a simple matter.Strategies chosen vary and depend on thecause supported by any organization.These can run from high-tech fund raisingor as MCITTA does it via theorganizational members to conventionaland profitable efforts via auctions, party,dance, festivals or other similar events.Given our organizational unity many ofthese are not viable. A few, such as 50/50raffles at onetime events and directcontribution via letters or a donation boxare well worth the effort. Donation boxesshould be small and when strategicallylocated in the community with permissioncan be a source of steady if not substantialreturn. These are a great way to getdonations with minimal effort. Theyshould be professional looking and havetheir intended purpose clearly attached.One of the very best ways is direct contactwith fraternal or social groups who have anaffinity with the military. Give a short butconcise presentation and solicit theirsupport. One other way may be lettercampaign to selected philanthropicindividuals in the community. One islimited only by ones imagination.

When your organization elects astrategy as MCITTA has done there mustbe an agreement to terms and objectivesset to paper for the proper management ofthe activity. This has been done via mail tomembers to ensure the fundraiser is clearlypresented for those participating, as morepeople tend to be remarkably generouswhen they know what the cause is allabout and believe in that cause. To besuccessful in any endeavor we need toovercome many common mistakes anddirect volunteers to be mindful of such

things that spell a doomed effort prior tostart. These pitfalls include but are notlimited to any or all of the following; a lackof planning, lack of direction, lack ofpreparation, lack of communication, lack ofpublicity, bad timing, poor or no rewardsand worst of all unmotivated personnel.

As a non-profit meeting once a yearas opposed to once a month, fundraising isvery challenging. To keep things rolling agood plan is necessary. Keep in mindMCITTA must rely on the generosity ofothers or our membership to achieve ourtarget goals. Without the generouscontributions of people, non-profits willnot stay in operation very long. Indetermining stated goals you will beguided accordingly as to what you need todo and the time or cost needed toaccomplish that goal. For MCITTA this isessential. If the correct type approach isaddressed there is no reason whyfundraising activity should continue anextended time. Time does not equalincreased revenue; well planned andproperly executed activity does equalprofit.

Recognition also needs beaddressed. Everyone needs a pat on theback now and then. A simple “Thank You”is good enough for some. For others, acertificate, or some form of public notice ismore appropriate. Some people give solelyto be congratulated. So the wise thing todo is to congratulate them and do so in apublic and in a timely manner. Althoughmembers don’t expect to be rewarded, theytoo appreciate a token of thanks. MCITTAalready has the Distinguished Volunteerlapel pin in place for members. We shouldnot make the mistake of offering a rewardto everyone just for participating. Don’toffer rewards from the expected profitshowever, donors should be awarded somevisible token such as a letter of Thanks.These can be simply provided by eachmember or from a central source such asour Finance Officer. The idea is to betasteful and properly recognize the donor.One other factor is ‘peer pressure’. Ifworked subtly via letters well written tobusinesses or corporations may encouragethe donors or friends to –keep up with theJones. Philanthropy occurs when thedonor and fundraiser share a sense ofmutual goals- a sense that something good

has taken place- not simply a tax deductionor some such other reward offered.

Donations occur when we make thedonor feel the decision to give is justifiedby the merits of the project and thatMCITTA will use the gift as promised. Amajor consideration in fund raising is toknow your group. This more thananything will influence success.Fundraisers need to advertise and solicitactive and drop out members, friends andfamily, social and fraternal organizations,business and corporate entities andcanvas local and other areas for support.

Before MCITTA can reap any benefitof this type campaign the members must beof an equal mindset for the acceptedproject. We must advise any contacts ofany and all great things MCITTA does, therapport of full disclosure must bemaintained. Then, once motivation isestablished, members need a strategy andtools to execute the plan. This motivationcan be advertised and presented directly tocontacts. The beneficiary messagesdelivered need to be consistent and reflectMCITTA’s goals and strategy for utilizingsaid monies. Any pleas made to contactsshould be developed with a compelling callto action for them to contribute. It shouldhave details of the value that MCITTAprovides and thus a need for the donation.The message should be concise andinclude instructions on where thesedonations can be made.

Naturally, when asking for someone’smoney we should respect their situation. Isuggest members be firm in their requests,not asking for exorbitant amounts butperhaps specific amounts within thedonors range and provide a means forcontacts to opt out. Let’s get out there andbring this project to fruition. Its successwill be your legacy to the public and forfuture Marines.

Harry ToddChairman of the Board

MCITTA

10 The Spot ReportJanuary 2010

Lest We Forget...

The names of this Marine Interrogator will be inscribed in the Last Man Log and remembered at thenext MCITTA annual Memorial Services.

In Memoriam"We will remember them..."

Last October 24, 2009, I was honored to be inattendance at the commissioning of the USSMakin Island (LHD-8) in San Diego.  My uncle,Captain Gerald P. Holtom, was the only officerkilled in action on the Makin Island Raid.  Heserved as the Intelligence/Language officer for ColEvans Carlson and the 2nd Raider Battalion.

 As Primary Next of Kin for my uncle, Ipersonally received his flag at the ceremony atArlington National Cemetery on August 17,2001.  I donated the shadow box containingthat flag and my uncle’s medals, includinghonors for his actions during the attack onPearl Harbor, to the ship.

 Attached are photographs of me withSilke Hagee, sponsor of the ship, and retiredCommandant Michael Hagee, in front of theshadow box in Carlson’s Cafe aboard ship.

 Tom Holtom

Photo Below: Tom Holtonposes with Mrs. Silke Hageeand former CMC, GenMichael Hagee in front of theshadow box honoring CaptGerald Holtom. At left is thelogo of LHD-8.

LtCol John J. Guenther, USMC (Ret) passed away on 29 October 2009 at this home in Arlington, VA with his wife of 57years, Gerrie, by his side. A memorial mass was held on November 4 prior to his internment at Arlington National Ceremony onJanuary 14, 2010 with full military honors.

Mike Decker, who relieved John at USMC HQ commented on a long and distinguished career this way: “John Guentherenlisted in the Marine Corps in January 1948. In September 1950 Corporal Guenther landed at Inchon with the Seventh Marines. InNovember and December, Sergeant Guenther was in the S-2 during and in the Chosin Reservoir battle.”

“He served other challenging/tough tours in Cuba, Vietnam, and East Germany. He was a great Marine who embodied the fullmeasure and meaning of Semper Fidelis.  John served more than thirty years in the Marine Corps and, upon retirement, continuedto serve in a civilian capacity, rising to the civilian equivalent of BGen and serving as the Assistant Director of Marine CorpsIntelligence.”

Based on his service to the Marine Corps across six decades, which included active duty and service as the senior USMCcivilian, he is credited widely as the father of modern Marine Intelligence.

On hearing the sad news, Captain Joe Mazzafro commented: “John Guenther was a friend and mentor to many of us. Thereare all too few of our...heroes left. Semper Fi.”

John’s article on Strategic Surprise and the North Korean and Chinese invasions during that war appeared in the Fall 2008NIP Quarterly.

The Marine Corps and MCITTA have lost a loyal and dedicated member and a very good friend.  John recently completedand submitted to Marine Corps Headquarters a thorough history of Marine Corps intelligence, a project that he has worked on forthe past several years. He will be missed by his many friends of the MCITTA.

11Volume VIII, Issue 2 January 2010

Current Notes of Interest...

By popular request and for thosemembers so desiring to keep current withthe private affairs of the Association wehave a new password protected link onour web. Since October our Web Mas-ter, Jeff Smith, has been diligently work-ing on this for us.

I am proud to announce it is fullyoperational and will contain informationnot of a public nature. To access the sitejust click on the link providing access tothis area, follow directions, receive fromour webmaster a user name and personalpassword, and you are ready to take ad-vantage of this link. Check such thingsas our financial reports and the progressof the Monument Fund.

Also find a revised and new Historylink. I encourage everyone to access andreview this site. Without your input ourhistory will not be known. Should yousee areas, inconsistencies or data need-ing correction do not hesitate to notify ourWebmaster at GunneyJay@sssnet.com.Jeff has also been working to improve ourweb site and would appreciate any sug-gestions on ways to make the site ap-pealing and professional.

Exciting New Web Links

Thank YouTo All Association Members,

I take this opportunity to offer mymany Thanks and a hearty well doneto all those who took the opportunity tocommunicate and respond to thesurvey in E-Bulletin 04-09. Thedeadline was met and thanks to yourwell thought out responses, an answerhas been formulated and forwarded tothe MCIA. I appreciate any and allcooperation from our membership.MCITTA survives via your participa-tion and operates for you. Once againTHANK YOU for your support.

Chairman of the Board,Harry Todd

This will be our last paper edition ofThe Spot Report. It was determined byunanimous vote at the San Diego Gather-ing to discontinue publishing a "hardcopy" version of our newsletter. Thenewsletter will be posted to our websiteand an E-Bulletin will be sent out in HTMLformat with special links to stories andarticles in the journal. A simple "click" willaccess the newsletter and the desiredarticle. The Spot Report will continue to beprovided on the website on a semiannualbasis, or as items of special interest areprovided to the editor.

For those members who do not havecomputer access to the MCITTA websiteat www.mcitta.org, you are requested tonotify Felix Conde by phone at (210) 253-9148 to continue to receive a paper versionof The Spot. We do not wish for anyoneto be excluded from receiving currentinformation about your Association.

For those who have email and webaccess, please ensure your email address iscurrent by dropping a note to Felix at:fcondejr@aol.com It is most importantwe maintain a current and up to datecontact with you as the E-Bulletin willbecome the Associations primary means ofcommunication in the future.

Finally, after establishing The SpotReport and acting as its sole editor for thepast eight years, Mitch Paradis would liketo step down. We are seeking a volunteerwho will take over these responsibilities aswell as providing the E-Bulletin on aregular basis. Your enthusiastic support incontinuing a viable means of communica-tion is most important. Mitch will beavailable to provide guidance and assis-tance until the transition is completed.

Please help by contacting Harry at:Flsfrtrs@comcast.net.

Special Announcement

Call for Articles!The Spot Report and your MCITTA continues to need your support through your contribution of articles of an historical naturethat define the history and legacy of the Marine Interrogators and Translator, with emphasis on the development and expansionof the 0250/0251 MOS field from the ITTs through the incorporation of the HUMINT skill set into the current MOS designator. Allmaterial, official reports, anecdotal accounts, and/or researched documentary narratives are most welcome. We especially seekmaterial from the period when the Marine Interrogator MOS was active from its inception in 1958 to its close in 2002.

A Special Note for our Members

First off let me say Happy NewYear to all.  Seeing as how we are allgetting “Older” I think this may besomething we can all benefit from– VALongterm Care; also referred to as theVA Aid and Attendance Pension. Formore information, go to this website: http://newsok.com/article/3344150

An easier to understand site whichmay be more helpful is at:www.veteranaid.org/index.php 

This is supposedly the mostoverlooked program available to us.  Itcan we used for in home care, also.  Ihave a friend who qualified his parentsfor the program when they entered anassisted living facility.  The key not tohave more than $80,000 in assetsbeyond your house and car.  There is no‘look back period’. 

Howard Young

URGENT NOTICE!

DUE TO BUDGETARY CUTS WE

WILL NO LONGER BE PRINTING PAPER

COPIES OF THE SPOT REPORT. OUR

PUBLICATION WILL BE AVAILABLE ON

LINE AT: www.mcitta.org

WE ARE ASKING IF YOU DO NOT

HAVE ACCESS TO A COMPUTER

NOTIFY US SO WE CAN MAKE AR-

RANGEMENTS FOR YOU TO RECEIVE A

PAPER COPY, BUT YOU MUST NOTIFY

US; OTHERWISE, WE WILL NOT SEND

YOU THE NEXT ISSUE OF THE SPOT

REPORT.

SO PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO

NOTIFY US OF YOUR REQUIREMENTS.

THANKS!

12 The Spot ReportJanuary 2010

Outside Charlie Med

MCITTA 7th Annual Gathering –

In early October a small group of the faithful once againarrived at the designated location to start another week ofcamaraderie and fun. Several members arrived a day or two

early to get a head start on sightseeing and offerings of San Diego.With everyone on board waiting a wonderful fun filled week thingsstarted the evening prior to scheduled events. Nearly everyonedescended upon a local eatery for an evening of gettingreacquainted and caught up withevents over the past year.

With the greetings of fellowMarines and friends lasting longinto the evening the folks ad-journed and were ready bright andearly for scheduled events the nextday. First thing Tuesday, guided bythe capable hands of Jim and LynneRiemer, our group boarded the OldTown Trolley, “The MCITTA Char-ter”, and set off for our very per-sonal and private extended tour.Hosted by a most congenial andappreciative guide the excursionallowed us a peek into the environsof San Diego’s past and present.Traveling to historic as well as com-mercial centers, some of the groupopted to step off and explore on their own. A great orientation andstart to a great event for our 7th Annual Gathering.

Returning at midday, to Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside thegroup had a short time to recharge until getting together for theevening at the Team Commander’s Reception. As always this eventwas much anticipated and the buffet style casual eating arrange-ment was one of the highlights. Heavy hors d’oeuvres accompa-nied by a succulent steamship round of beef with open bar allowedfor the air to become saturated with tales of past escapades. Adher-

ing to a loosely establishedprotocol everyone finallysettled down to listen as ourTeam Chief, Felix Conde, de-scribed the meaning of our LastMan Standing display, as wepaid tribute to our brothers lostsince meeting last. Solemnityconcluded, Team Commander,Jim Haskins, ably assisted byPast Team Commander, HarryTodd, began honoring thoseworthy group members withthe awards approved by ourAwards Committee. Many ofour members proudly acceptedthe recognition and some notpresent were also honored. Thehighlight of this evening was

the presentation of a pair of hand carved wood ducks mountedupon a piece of driftwood to Lynne for her involvement over the

13Volume VIII, Issue 2 January 2010

past year to make this year’s Gathering the success it was. This giftwas particularly meaningful for her as she not only collects decoysand carved wildlife but because she is familiar with this local artform from the East Coast. The carvings were old, beautifully ren-dered, rustic and their exact history is lost. Unlike previous yearswe were not required by time constraint to depart and the camara-derie lasted late into the evening.

Wednesday morning practically with the sun the Annual Busi-ness meeting convened (meeting minutes may be found onMCITTA’s website, www.mcitta.org). The paramount item on theagenda was the survival of MCITTA. Discussions and sugges-tions for success finally resulted in deciding to restructure ourcommand staff from a slate of elected officers to that of an estab-lished Board of Officers. Once that was settled the discussion turnedtoward the selection of a Gathering site for 2011. While no positivesite was selected there are two very positive prospects needing tobe fully checked out. (The 2011 Gathering location will be announcedat a future date.)

With businessconcluded the groupmustered aboardtransportation to tour

the USS Midway moored in SanDiego Harbor and now serving asa monument and museum. USSMidway served for over 50 yearsand contains from the flight deckto the depth of her internal bow-els over 60 exhibits dedicated to the sailors and Marines of hercompany during the active duty years. The tour was electronicallyself-guided allowing a leisurely three hours to absorb her valianthistory. There were available guided tours for small groups by do-cents who had actually served aboard this magnificent ship.

Following the Midway tour, we felt the call of the sea andeagerly boarded the Hornblower Cruise boat for a two hour tour ofSan Diego Harbor while the strains of “Gilligan’s Island” themecould be heard among the group members. The deluxe tour covered

the Coronado Bay with exhibits of square-riggers and a Man ofWar; as we passed under the Coronado Bridge with the spectacularview the world’s largest wooden structured hotel, the Hotel DelCoronado, and the various homes of the rich and famous. We thenentered the largest U. S. Navy port on the west coast with its manyclasses of active duty Naval ships home ported in San Diego. Onour return we witnessed Seal Teams and helicopter training opera-tions in the Bay. Traveling west, we sailed past Shelter Islandstowards Point Loma as we watched harbor seals haul out for sun-bathing, raced two America’s cup yachts as they tacked and pliedthe waters in the harbor in practice runs, sailed past Point LomaSubbase to the most western point of the United States under theCabrillo Monument and the Point Loma Lighthouse.

The evening meal was an on your own affair within the con-fines of Seaport Village a 14 acre waterfront shopping dining andentertainment complex mimicking a seaside setting reminiscent ofcenturies ago— the perfect end to a splendid day discovering thismagnificent city by the bay.

The following morning a valiant group of golfers departed forthe first Jim Riemer Classic Golf Tournament at the Sail Ho golfcourse located on the former U. S. Navy Recruit Training Base. Forthose staying back the day was equally busy. After breakfast some

returned to revisit sites not fully appreciated previ-ously and to take advantage of the opportunity tosatisfy a shopping urge for mementoes. By 1200 thegolfers returned declaring their outing a completesuccess and everyone gathered in the HospitalitySuite for a catered lunch before we adjourned to thehotel’s mini golf course and shuttle-board area for a

bit of intra-organizational com-petition. Following our after-noon Jim Riemer Mini-Classicwe regrouped in the HospitalitySuite for beverages and to rec-ognize those who excelled on thefield and rewarded with trophiesand medallions to mark theirprowess. Vince Burdelski andMitch Paradis were the first win-ners of the Jim Riemer Golf Clas-sic permanent and rotating tro-phy. As it turned out, everyonereceived an award of one level oranother. A great event, enjoyedby all and eager to have the Jim

Riemer Classic repeated for many years to come. Later we allconvened at the Red Sail Restaurant for a late dinner and to enjoya complimentary beverage provided by Luke Thoma who was un-able to make the Gathering for health reasons, but was certainlythere in spirit. All hands toasted Luke for his generosity and hisdedicated enthusiasm for the MCITTA.

For many, Friday was a day of reminiscing as we departed forthe MCRD San Diego and a nostalgic trip to the roots of our recruitdays to share a graduation of another generation of Marines. Be-fore we assembled on the “Grinder” we held a moment of solemnityin the Base Chapel for the Annual Memorial Services to honorthose Marine Interrogators we have lost in battle. Always a specialmoment of our Annual Gathering, we took a moment to rememberour fallen brothers and honor their bravery.

14 The Spot ReportJanuary 2010

Dinner at the Globe & Laurel

Following the Memorial Services we weretreated to the welcoming activities by MCRDSan Diego staff for visiting parents and theintroduction to our distinguished group to BellaWood, a beautiful young “lady”, well a beauti-ful 18-month-old English bulldog mascot intraining. Like all new recruits, she has thus farlearned to salute on command and was learn-ing to deal with crowds on this day. Bella was a great hit andloved posing for the camera.

The 500 plusstrong recruit com-pany, I company, 3rdBattalion, RecruitTraining Regimentmustered on thegrinder anxious to fi-nally be called MA-RINE. Ceremonieswere crisp and we ofthe "old breed" werethankful to know ourCorps will continue to be aviable force guarding

our country’s future. After graduation the group had a couplehours of “Base liberty” to shop, eat and sight see.

Following a fine day at MCRD, San Diego, we returnedto the hotel and assembled at 1800 for a social hour prior toour Annual Banquet. With no special guest speaker, HarryTodd seized the moment to speak of the organizational re-structuring, how it will function and the situation with the2011 Gathering venue. Harry got carried away with his enthu-siasm and went on and on until his wife gave him the zip-itsignal after 35 to 40 minutes. With Harry finally reigned in, themeal was served and, once again, we enjoyed an evening ofgood friends, laughter and the dulcet tones of Mike Bianchinoas he serenaded us in his own inimitable style. As always, weappreciate Mike’s contribution to the overall success of ourmany Gatherings. This year we were pleasantly surprised asVince Burdelski joined Mike behind the microphone and re-ally knocked out several tunes with a voice equal to MichaelBuble— well, not quite but it was pleasantly unexpected, nonethe-

less. All had a grand time but alas all good things must end and soit was as the last day came to a close.

After a very full week, breakfast for the early risers was re-plete with good-byes and good health sentiments. As folks de-parted the 7th Annual Gathering slowly came to a successful con-clusion. No one was disappointed by the events so well organizedby Jim and Lynne Riemer and to them, we profess our many, manythanks. We all appreciate the time and effort not to mention hardwork and headaches they put forth to bring off yet another suc-cessful Gathering.

As we close this chapter, welook forward to seeing everyonenext year. For more pictures of ourgreat San Diego Gathering, go toour website at www.mcitta.org. Seeyou in Tampa!

The Ladies

The Guys

Report by Harry ToddPhotos courtesy of Felix Conde;Howard Young; and Mitch Paradis

15Volume VIII, Issue 2 January 2010

It's time to consider planning to attend the 2010Gathering. Thanks to our representative hosts andAssociation members in Tampa Bay, PaulHernandez, Kris Hankinson and Richard Quinoneswe will enjoy the distractions of that lovely city for our2010 Gathering to be held tentatively between 17 and23 October. Mark your calendars now and plan tohave a wonderful time with friends and associates.Check our website for additional information as itbecomes available.

Chairman of the BoardHarry Todd

MCITTA 8th Annual Gathering –

You want Florida– you want Tampa Bay! A single day’sitinerary might include breakfast at a waterside cafe, a visit toBusch Gardens Africa, the Florida Aquarium, a streetcar rideto Channelside Bay Plaza for shopping, topped off with a stayat the beautiful Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel. Then on tohistoric Ybor City where the Cuban sandwiches are hot andcrisp, the cigars are hand-rolled, and the colorful streets arelined with fun. The sugar white, sandy beaches are a must.

The new Tampa Riverwalk is a continuous pedestrianwalkway extending from the Channelside area to TampaHeights along the east side of the Hillsborough River. Itincorporates pedestrian amenities, art and interpretiveelements, retail and restaurant uses, parks and openspace, and other urban amenities. See more at:www.tampagov.net/dept_riverwalk

Below: Centro Ybor– The colorful and enticingCuban center with a spectacular view of the cityskyline above.

Tampa at sunrise

>> The Tampa Gathering is sure to be unique. Plan on it! <<

The Brotherhood

I now know why men who have been to war yearn to reunite. Not to

tell stories or look at old pictures. Not to laugh or weep. Comrades

gather because they long to be with the men who once acted at their

best; men who suffered and sacrificed, who were stripped of their hu-

manity. I did not pick these men. They were delivered by fate and the

military. But I know them in a way I know no other men. I have never

given anyone such trust. They were willing to guard something more

precious than my life. They would have carried my reputation, the

memory of me. It was part of the bargain we all made, the reason we

were so willing to die for one another. As long as I have my memory, I

will think of them all, every day. Such good men.—Paraphrased from "These Good Men" by Michael Norman