20 Comments

We're quite happy with the Belleau Woods version of how we acquired the nickname Devil Dogs. The fighting at Belleau Woods was unbelievably difficult, the Marines fought across open wheat fields to assault the entrenched German positions. The French had tried and failed, the Marines succeeded, it was a bloody victory. There is a gated spring there now , Marines are allowed to enter and drink at the fountain. We are going to be there next year. Semper Fidelis

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When I was serving in 1969-1973 Chesty Puller was the Seargent-Major of the Marine Corps. Thanks for the memories.

❤️🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

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I'm glad you mentioned the nickname "leathernecks" too! I like the origin of that one, as well. It was good enough to be alluded to in their Hymn....

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An interesting bit of history that you have provided, Tara Ross . Thank you for it.

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Mascots can instill pride and none more so than Chesty.

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My husband served in the Marines in Vietnam..we enjoyed this story.

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A very appropriate Mascot for the Marines.

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I had always thought of the Marines as being “Leathernecks”!

Very interesting and fun story!

Thank you Tara!!

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Man's best friend and a Marine to boot. Chesty is a great Mascot whose presence promotes pride and admiration. Chesty is burley, ugly in a cute way, easy to like and quick to fight ferociously when need be. A perfect symbol for the greatest fighting force in the world. Semper Fi, Marines.

Thank you Tara.

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Thank you Tara for this 💖 It!!! Semper-fi Marines!

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The US MARINES will always take a negative and make it positive. One of many things I love about them. Sincerely an US Air Force Brother-in-Arms.

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🇺🇸 The enemy (apparently) gives them a new nickname and a mascot that needed to be pardoned...yup, sounds like U.S. Marines.

The best warriors have the best stories. 🇺🇲

Thanks, TR!

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Great story of the Marines’ nick name and mascot history. I appreciate this having a son who served in the Marines.

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The Marines certainly have a great symbol of their heritage in their English Bulldog mascot! Great story, Tara!

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Interesting

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No matter how it came to be, it was probably one of the most successful marketing ideas in history. I might also add the best most enduring branding in history. A totally appropriate mascot. And while, sorry lifelong dachshund owner here, a dachshund never backs down from a fight, they just don't look as fearsome as the bulldog.

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