The joy of leading Marines

Brian Bresnahan:

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Even when you are one of "The Few, The Proud" it is still an incredible experience to serve alongside others who belong to that fraternity. I continue to be amazed at the level of maturity, professionalism and courage they possess. These are smart kids with intestinal fortitude, with character.

So many times you would simply give them your intent and desired end state, and they would deliver. If you've never led or had the privilege of observing a group that gets it right almost every single time the first time, believe me, it's truly an honor.

It's an unforgettable experience to accompany an infantry unit that has every Marine, without specific command or direction melt into exactly the right place. Each one, knowing his job, from the time they dismount the vehicles or walk into an area, is either posted or patrolling precisely where he should be.

I stand in awe of the corpsmen that run into the middle of a firefight to retrieve or give aid to a fallen Marine.

I am encouraged when I remember the Forward Air Controller being shot at by RPG's who simply peeked back around the corner at the rest of the platoon, in a humorous, cartoon-like way and kept talking to the medevac helo and close air support gunships.

To know that young men like Corporal Stephen Flannery exist should reassure all of us. Every time I stepped into a group of Iraqis I knew he had my back. I knew he wouldn't be gawking at something around him. I knew, without looking, that he was doing his job and that he would act swiftly and decisively when the time came.

They were inspiring to work with, and they taught me how to be a better Marine. From them I learned lessons which I apply today and will for the rest of my life. Like the time an older Marine taught me to "Never argue with a pig. You'll only get dirty and you'll make the pig look smarter than he is."

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Unlike so many liberals here, these fine young men and women have the insight, the vision to see the world around them and all that is both good and bad about it. They see how their actions can make the world a safer place. Unlike the anti-war groups and liberal cynics, they know that change only happens through hard work, sacrifice and perseverance.

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If you have had the honor of leading these fine Marines it is something you never forget. Semper Fi. If you missed it, check out this story on Lance Cpl. Sims.