After John Basilone's death, his wife Lena never remarried. John was killed on Iwo Jima February 19, 1945 just seven months after marrying the love of his life and seven months before the allies would declare victory in the Pacific. As I have commented she was a LEGEND as was John. Within hours of landing on Iwo Jima, where he forcibly got his men up and off the beach, Basilone was killed by an enemy mortar round at age 27. . Anyway it looks like John and Lena Basilone meet and fall in love during episode 8. "That was our first real look, up close, at the war."-John Basilone. They were both technically saavy at their jobs and legendary leaders as NCOs.They are heros to me, as the members of my family who answered the call and still do to this day, my family in Israel. I have a flag and it has the names of family and friends named on it. They will forever belong to a Band of Brothers and Sisters who willingly served this Country when she called. However, this time my sentiments were of the lives and the wonderment of them as people. I served from Dec 73 to Jun 2007 in the Army and Air Force. Thank you both for your service to the greatest nation in the world. Most people are very selfish in life and I find that time and life itself are the most valuable things. I hope that eventually she will be interned with her husband. He spoke very little about it. We talked about her experiences. I got a lot of insights on it from my high school teachers who fought as Marines in the Pacific. What a shame she is not buried with her husband. He served as a medic like I did and later became a doctor. On February 19, 1945, the first day of the invasion of Iwo Jima, he was serving as a machine gun section leader on Red Beach II. Basilone fought. The younger people have never learned this and it is a strange concept to them . As a veteran, I have profound respect for her service to this country. She was every bit a Marine which I would follow anywhere. I saw how ugly war gets, but I was a medic who had to be there to minimize the suffering of both sides. Lena Basilone was a very independent and rugged individual, who epitomized what the USMC is all about. After his death, he was buried in Arlington National Cemetery. She always did things that were bigger than herself. I worked every day of my EMS career to prevent this. That she and Gunnery Sgt. To me as I have said before was a legend of her own in the Marine Corps. To apply for a WMA Emergency Grant, you must complete the online application form and provide documentation of your financial emergency. During her participation in WWII bond drives, she developed a close relationship with John Basilone, US Marine Medal of Honor recipient, who was later killed on Iwo Jima. Wife of John Basilone. Representing The Fewer & ProuderGenerations of Service, SSG Richard"Rick"Doc" Borenstein,Medic Retired, ssg rick "doc " borenstein ret. For his heroism there, he was awarded the Navy. Basilone is interred in Arlington National Cemetery, in Section 12, Grave 384, grid Y/Z 23.5. Women Marines are such an important part of the Marine Corps. For the next seven months, they made the best of their time together before Basilone left for Iwo Jima with his regiment. JOHN BASILONE OBITUARY. We need everyone on the line. 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. Lena was the same kind of a Marine too. They were married on July 7, 1944 and spent some time together before John returned to the South Pacific. I am a child of the Vietnam era and I was shaped by those soldiers who fought in Vietnam and adapted to them. Stouthearted and indomitable, Gunnery Sergeant BASILONE, by his intrepid initiative, outstanding skill, and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of the fanatic opposition, contributed materially to the advance of his company during the early critical period of the assault, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout the bitter conflict was an inspiration to his comrades and reflects the highest credit upon Gunnery Sergeant BASILONE and the United States Naval Service. I deserved it. But the cynicism did not last, and Lena and John married in the summer of 1944: I am a retired US Army medic that served for 33 1/2 years. Deeply moved and deeply saddened by the story of John and Lena. She is my hero. 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. This may include medical bills, eviction notices, or other relevant documents. On December 8, 1941, she went to go shopping. I tried your church and they had nothing and various places and people in Ca,You were so important to Aunt Lena. Another USS John Basilone is scheduled for commission in 2019. The television show featured her as a significant character in the final episode: The Pacific Part 8: Iwo Jima: While he is training a company of recruits in the fine art of killing Japanese, Basilone meets Lena Riggi, a female Marine just turned 30 and cynical as hell about the advances of yet another lonely guy in uniform, especially a celebrity who can get the best tables at the nicest restaurants. : http://www.facebook.com/groups/10868541353/. He clearly foresaw his future three separate times. This is what I remember about Lena. , Brad Garrett Wife Height, Is A Mobile Home Considered Real Property In Florida, Animated Music Videos . From what Ive read they gained a lot of prestige. But she always contended it would be too much trouble. 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. Also, just as deeply in awe of Johns heroism, his ultimate sacrifice, and Lenas continued devotion to him for over 50 years. It should be cherished by Marines Past, Present, and Future. Lets just say Ive become officially obsessed with the story. May they both rest in peace and live on in the history they helped write. Her spirit still lives on.. God Bless, her and her husband!!!! The Life and Death of . I have studied the war in the Pacific. My husband was stationed in California in the 80s; I even stayed with one of his relatives in Riverside while he checked in at MCRD San Diego. John Basilone (November 4, 1916 - February 19, 1945) was a United States Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant who received the Medal of Honor for actions during the Battle for Henderson Field in the Guadalcanal campaign, and the Navy Cross posthumously for extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Iwo Jima. [9][10] As the battle went on, ammunition became critically low. Basilone, [] . Their work will not be forgotten by all who were in contact with them. Lena was notified of his death on March 7, 1945 -- her 32nd birthday. I am glad that someone was able to be with Lena. People can see the war in the Pacific through the eyes of the Marines clearly.This is something cant be avoided or entered into withtout thought as to what can happen Respectfully.SSG RickDocBorenstein(Retired) combat Medic. Ive met only recently the story of John Basilone and now, thanks to your words, even a little of the life of Lena. This is an extraordinary piece of History. Despite their supply lines having been cut off by enemies who had infiltrated into the rear, Basilone fought through hostile ground to resupply his heavy machine gunners with urgently needed supplies. Oh, my, it must have been terrible for her. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. During her time there she met John Basilone, a Marine and the first United States decorated World War II hero. He was deployed to Guantnamo Bay, Cuba, and in August 1942, he took part in the invasion of Guadalcanal. The Basilones are a happy loving couple for the eternity. Im writing a piece on Lena Basilone, I am a Marine and have been looking to speak with people that could share stories about Lena, and her life of love, friendship and her service to veterans after the Marine Corps. To The Altamirano Family: Lena Basilone was a Marine who was in a league of her own.She along with another Medal Of Honor winners husband Terry Murphy the wife of Audie Murphy helped alot of veterans get what they needed from the Veterans Administration.To me the Basilones were both legendary heroes.My father and I were combat medics. Lena served an important role though,giving the soldier good chow was a morale booster. Basilone's parents met at a church gathering and married three years later. My family is most Army AF Navy and yes Marines. John Basilone is a Marine Corps legend. If a couple should ever be in Heaven its them. Its great to learn more about the people behind the name. Once in a while, I add a friends name to it. VERY fascinating story about both Gy Basilone and Sgt Lena. Lena as a dear and precious friend of mine. Naval Service.[11]. Marine's heroism gave him legendary status. She got so excited around Christmas when it was time to get gifts together to take to the wounded war heroes!! Thank you!!! Just yesterday I was riding the bus in Portland, Oregon, when a woman boarded with her walker. The only thing I really knew about Basilone was the road that cuts through Camp Pendleton. I missed the mini-series The Pacific so Im going to have to find a DVD. My father was on Peleiliu as a medic and thats what I think spooked him and he finished the war in Hawaii. After I sent any piece of information I could find acknowledging her as Sgt. I ran into Mrs. Basilone @ the VA when I need help navigating the system, She was there for me. And she cut it with flair! Her life and her love is a chapter sadly left untold. I also remember my fallen comrades from high school, through Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm Iraq and Afghanistan. His arrival was highly publicized, and his hometown held a parade in his honor when he returned. Though the battle was fierce and the Marines' defensive positions were being barraged, Sgt. Lena was notified of his death on March 7, 1945 her 32nd birthday. From what I have learned about her from you and others Lena was a very independent woman. I pray for all of them. Some were there when I wanted to to be a Marines,and the rules said I could not be one. Lena lives within a lot of us,sons of Pacific veterans and contemporary Marines and soldiers.Regards,SSG Rick ,Doc Borenstein, Hello Mrs. Barbara Garner, are an Italian lady and my name is Stella. sabrinammessenger..WELL SAID!! Regards, I can also say to you that those who do - seem to need some sort of verification for their time in country. She one of a kind,who we may never see the likes of again. Her group of women were heavily complimented and recognized by the marines they served for good chow. Regards Doc I Was A combat medic like my father, Thank You for thinking of Lena Basilone.She did a lot as was mentioned in my previous comments.She helped a lot of our veterans get access to services they needed. She purchased a home in Lakewood, California and lived there for over 50 years until her death. WEnow are beginning to treat veterans with this problem. In my mind from what I have learned about Peleiu it was a blood affair on both sides. I didnt write for periods up to 1 month. Both Eisenhower and Patton wanted to keep on the heels of the Germans, which supposedely justified using the Remagen Bridge. Truly a wonderful woman of strong beliefs. My generation followed their example and I think its why I survived 5 conflicts with mild to moderate PTSD. Gotta gp get em.,during a hail of gunfire.Later in other conflicts it was knowledge I definitely needed and used, as it save my life. He was one of a family of ten children. The tickets are free but . His actions at Guadalcanal earned him the Medal of Honor. He was killed on February 19, 1945 in an exchange of heavy gunfire on Iwo Jima. I think it will improve the militarys ability to fight. 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. Stella. Thats typical. I did some time on Dustoff and later did almost 5 years total. I am at least a 3rd generation medic. Thanks, Dave. He then fought his way toward Airfield Number 1 and aided a Marine tank that was trapped in an enemy mine field under intense mortar and artillery barrages. She lived in California, worked for the electric company, and volunteered to serve in several organizations related to Marine. One primary example was the Womens Air Service Pilots, out of Abilene Texas. Megan. The Marines had a Sullivans which I fell victim too, I wanted to be a Marine. Regards,SSg RickDoc Borenstein Ret. The Marines and Army suffered over 10000 casualities.. but those were the times and conditions because I think Americans wanted a quicker end to WWII. We were both combat medics and had extra duties our units needed including water purification and distribution. They were married at St. Mary's Star of the Sea . As a combat veteran myself it was extremely realistic and told what it was like. Megan, I met Lena long after she served in the USMC. Dear Barbara Garner, Thank you for your service as well as everyone who serves. 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 served from 73-2007 Vietnam era to Iraq. Thanks for taking care of Lena, Stella: My dad was a veteran of the Pacific. Required fields are marked *. Maybe a bio or maybe a fictionalized with fact sort of book ala Alex Haileys Rootsbut we shall see what we shall see. What a debt we owe to that generation. 22 daily Regards, Doc Thats why I talk about so others are not misinformed by the media, or teachers, Paul. My hero as well as her husband. These drones can remain airborne until a target is identified at which point they set a course for that target and go out in a blaze of glory. The Democrat did not seek re-election for . P.S. A recent visit to the battle sites and the cemeteries in Europe was a moving experience and a grim reminder of sacrifices made for the freedom we enjoy! I would have giving anything to have met MRS Lena Basilone. At that time women were not accepted in a mans world in the military at that time. I have had 7 combat campaigns to boot too Lena was not not much for publicity and kept a low profile. Charles "Check" Tatum. Lena lost her husband within A few short months after their wedding . It was there that John died, in an exchange of heavy gunfire on the island of Iwo Jima. I have my lense of combat by which I can see why the Pacific descended into the cauldron of hell that it was, both sides fought brutally with equal gusto. News of John's death, which had occurred on February 19th, 1945, did not reach home until March 8th, 1945, a Thursday. To me John was a legend whose legacy will not be matched for a long time. While stationed at Camp Pendleton, he met his future wife, Lena Mae Riggi, who was a Sergeant in the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. He was killed on February 19, 1945 in an exchange of heavy gunfire on Iwo Jima. . While you and your familys service is gratefuly appreciated, as a vietnam vet I have never talked or disscused voluntarily my service time as much as you seem to be inclined to do. There will not be another one like her and Terri Murphy Audie Murphys wife. John was killed on Iwo Jima February 19, 1945 just seven months after marrying the love of his life and seven months before the allies would declare victory in the Pacific. He then attacked with grenades and demolitions, single-handedly destroying the entire strong point and its defending garrison. WowI just started reading Im Staying With My Boys, the book about her husband. I met her sometime in 1986 when she visited our church and we became instant friends. There are no words to describe this amazing lady. For his actions during the battle, Basilone received the United States military's highest award for valor, the Medal of Honor. Thank you both for your service and sacrifice. I just have very much respect for both John and Lena for making the personal sacrifice, and for John making the ultimate sacrifice. Hello All: Please let me know. She must have been a great marine. After his request to return to the fleet was approved, Basilone was assigned to "C" Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division. Date of Death : February 19, 1945, Iwo Jima Airport / Iohjima Airport / Iohtoh Airport, Ogasawara, Tokyo, Japan : Place of Birth : Buffalo : Country: . I guess she told her friend Barbara that she didnt want to bother anyone which is silly. However, she decided to go and pray at church instead, since America had made the decision to enter the war the day before due to the devastating, ruthless Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and news of Japan's recent takeover of Shanghai, China . I have stayed to true to taking care of the troops as a medic. I reluctantly want to fight wars but as a medic we are needed to ease the suffering and save lives, Hi SGT Rick, i love everything about the greatest generation. The gave us a lot and we appreciated their help in return as they helped us vets adjust. [17][18][19], His actions helped Marines penetrate the Japanese defense and get off the landing beach during the critical early stages of the invasion. Which made him keep his accounts inside of him. She loved him very much. I wish she could see, hear and read the admiration so many have for her. John stood up to run. I wished he didnt go back to war but he was truly a hero and great marine. i am a proud American. they have only received veterans status within the last 15-20 years. 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. Lena never forgot us and took care of us. I was with her as she drew her last labored breath in the ER after weeks of trying to recover from the surgery. A colossal critical and commercial failure, it essentially marked the end of Hunter's career as a major Hollywood player. On one occasion I drove Lena to Camp Pendleton for a celebration of the Womens Marine Corp. 60th anniversary, (I think it was 60) It was so great seeing how she was honored and revered by the young lady Marines. What was the most moving person I had found was that of Lena. I would think she should be buried beside John Basilone., I think Arlington has different requirements from other cemeteries. She helped a lot of soldiers out throughout her long life of service.I thing she wanted to remain in the background. If possible I would like to speak with you about setting up an introduction so that his niece can speak with you. Basilone grew up in the nearby Raritan Town (now Borough of Raritan) where he attended St. Bernard Parochial School. By the end of the engagement, Japanese forces opposite the Marines' lines had been virtually annihilated. Gracias, amiga! He was the only enlisted Marine to receive both of these decorations in World War II. I want to reduce veteran suicide statistic rate. The John Basilone Memorial Parade is the only parade in the country honoring a World War II hero. You got tired both physically and mentally quickly. Was never properly entered into her service records. Famous John Basilone was born on November 4, 1916 in United States. It was so sad that they never got to spend their lives together. In February 1945, he was killed in action on the first day of the invasion of Iwo Jima, after he single-handedly destroyed an enemy blockhouse and led a Marine tank under fire safely through a minefield. I know that she and her husband are together today as they have been since her death. She did many things that were bigger than herself.including returning Johns medal of honor to his family, well as his insurance.Lena was in charge of her life as well as her marines she served with.To me and other she is a legend in a league of her own and many women Marines I have know are the same way.Lena was definetly her own person, if that helps you understand her. Her parents were Italian immigrants. From her Find-A-Grave entry and her obituary: Lena Mae Riggi was born on March 7, 1913 in Portland, Oregon. It was her (32nd) birthday," said Barbara. I knew of only one other like her,Terry Murphy Audie Murphys wife.,he died in 1971. To my knowledge, Lena never had long hair and I dont think in those days it was allowed by the WMS. Basilone received numerous honors, including the following: John Basilone receiving the Medal of Honor in 1943. Vera, always treasure what John and Lena were, real icons and professionals. Regards, SSg Rick Doc Borenstein ret, US Army Medical Dept. She even said when you had the best,who wants the rest especially after John was killed at Iwo Jima. Think we need more people like Lena, your Dad, and yourself. War was fought with the idea that you do what you must do to win. Others fought at Peleliu and Okinawa.These soldiers endured a war likes of which I hope is not repeated, but I am pessimistic with this assessment in todays world right now..HBO actually brought this very unpublicized area of WW II alive. Lena earned the right to be buried next to John. John Basilone, a recipient of the . 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. We were proud to do this.You make our sacrifices bearable. I am pleased know of a member of John Basilones family. She always appeared and acted much younger than her actual age. Instead, Iwo Jima turned out to be a life raft. John Basilone (November 4, 1916 - February 19, 1945) was a United States Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant who received the Medal of Honor for heroism above and beyond the call of duty during the Battle for Henderson Field in the Guadalcanal campaign, and the Navy Cross posthumously for extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Sergeant John Basilone's legacy is one of the most expansive and visible in Marine Corps history. She had a very strong love for Gy.Sgt John Basilone even though their marriage was short,it was a very strong one. My father served in the Pacific and took part in the Central Pacific and Palau campaign(Peleliu). Eternal be his memory . Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone / USMC (1916-1945): . But he was very persistent !! Robin: Ask Barbara About what Lena said I dont want to bother anyone because she was like a daughter to Lena. The Women Marines Association (WMA) Emergency Grants provide financial assistance to active duty or Veterans who are facing unexpected financial crises. 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. I grew up learning all about both of them.The Marines were blessed to have these soldiers.This is why we are a free country by their mere presence us army combat medic i, FORT HOOD, Texas (Dec.11, 2022) Members of the search fire and rescue team, assigned to the Marine Corps Chemical, Biological Incident Response Force, saws through concrete while conducting a rescue during Exercise Sudden Response 23 at Fort Hood, Texas Dec. 11, 2022. United States Government. Wendy 2003 How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days: Jeannie Ashcroft 2004 Pagans: Elise Ashton 2004 National Treasure: Agent Dawes I am not nor have ever been a member of the American Armed forces. My dad was in the Peleliu campaign as part of the US Armys 81st Division who finished the campaign at Angaur, a neighboring island. Aside from numerous decorations, Basilone received other honors. Marine Corp veteran Korea Bongiovi Funeral Home, Raritan, NJ Courier News Sep. 7, 2022 Obituary of Donald Basilone Donald Basilone, 92, of Newport Richie, died August 13, 2022. 456 John Basilone died a painful death in the dirt near Motoyama Airfield Number One. January. I myself was never able to enlist or join any branch of the service due to many medical issues, but I had tried many times. Death At Iwo Jima On October 24, 1942, John Basilone was supporting the war effort in the Lunga Area. [12] After the parade, Basilone toured the country raising money for the war effort and achieved celebrity status. Thanks to a character in the recent television series called "The Pacific", the name of a female Marine has made an appearance on the pop culture radar: Lena Mae Riggi. So Ive been doing some research of my own. Lena Basilone teachs me a lot even after she is gone from our presence. My father,Dr Milt Borenstein was a combat medic in the Pacific Attached to the USMC under General Roy Geiger of Guadalcanal fame.When Lena met John she was in charge of a mess hall at Camp Pendleton,California. On October 24, 1942, during the Battle for Henderson Field, his unit came under attack by a regiment of about 3,000 soldiers from the Japanese Sendai Division using machine guns, grenades, and mortars against the American heavy machine guns. I was never one to really say anything religious. May g-d in wisdom help us fix the VA after the recent round of events. During brutal fighting with heavy casualties on both sides, he killed at least 38 Japanese soldiers. Regards,Doc, Robin: I second a lot of Pauls comments. I see that your family had a lot of marines and sailors, as are some members of my family. They both are heros of mine. Larry, Thanks for doing what you are doing this. I had to settle for the Army. I have learned about what my dad and other Marines did through other Marines and Soldiers.who served with him. "Sgt. While the enemy was hammering at the Marines' defensive positions, Sgt. As she moved into her 80s, health issues began to crop up. Thank You Robin, Hi Robin and Barbara:I was recently out to my old home at Anaheim. 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. His widow, Lena M. Basilone, died June 11, 1999, aged 86, and is buried at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California. Consistently daring and aggressive as he fought his way over the battle-torn beach and up the sloping, gun-studded terraces toward Airfield Number 1, he repeatedly exposed himself to the blasting fury of exploding shells and later in the day coolly proceeded to the aid of a friendly tank which had been trapped in an enemy mine field under intense mortar and artillery barrages, skillfully guiding the heavy vehicle over the hazardous terrain to safety, despite the overwhelming volume of hostile fire.