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2/25: "None better" for possible deployment ahead

USMC News

Story Identification Number: 2003320155336
Story by Sgt. Rob Henderson

GARDEN CITY, NY(March 20, 2003) -- The Reserve Marines and sailors of 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines (2/25), headquartered here, were called back to active-duty March 8 to begin preparations for a deployment to Southwest Asia.

The Marines were deactivated December 10, 2002, after a yearlong deployment to Camp Lejeune, N.C., in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. In response to the mounting possibility of war with Iraq, these Marines are now facing another year away from their homes and families.

"These Marines have been called back, because there are none better," said Brig. Gen. John McCarthy, Commanding General, 4th Marine Division. "When we go in to combat, we"re going to put our best foot forward."

For many Marines and their families, the threat of war is both scary as well as exhilarating. Many Garden City Marines were first-responders to the September 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, and any war against terrorism is a personal one due to the unit's loss of a Marine when the North Tower fell.

Cpl. Sean P. Tallon, anti-tank assualtman, Javelins Platoon, Weapons Co., 2/25, was not only a Marine, he was a fireman with New York Fire Department's Ladder Company 10. As one of the first crews to respond to the attacks, Ladder Company 10 sustained many casualties, including Tallon.

"It really affects us, because (Tallon) is not here to take part in this (deployment)," said Bronx, N.Y., native Sgt. Terrance D. James, anti-tank assualtman, Javelins Platoon, Weapons Co., 2/25. "When our morale was low, Tallon was always the one who cheered us up with a joke or something funny."

The unit invited friends and families to a "Family Day", hosted by the Vanderbilt Hotel, to help ease the minds of loved ones who are experiencing anxiety towards the upcoming deployment. Throughout the day, one sentiment burned through the sadness of the impending separation: if we go to war, let's do it right this time.

"I definitely support a war against Iraq," said Pamela Furer, mother of 21-year-old Lance Cpl. Joseph J. Wilichoski, anti-armor assistant-gunner, Weapons Company. "I think this (regime change) should've been done a long time ago, like the first time we fought a war against Iraq."

Also attending the Family Day was Congressman Steve Israel, D-N.Y., who offered words of encouragement to the Marines and their families. Israel, a member of the Armed Forces House Committee, spoke at great length about his fight to improve veteran's benefits.

"While you're over there fighting for us," said Israel, "know that I will be back here fighting for you to get the benefits you have earned. You have fulfilled the obligation you have to our nation, and now, our nation must fill its obligation to you."

After tearful good-byes, the Marines of 2/25 loaded onto buses for an all-night ride to Camp Lejeune. Once there, the Marines will have final gear issue, participate in training evolutions and ensure all medical and legal affairs are in order before deploying to the United States Central Command's area of responsibility. In the months to come, each member of the unit will be tested mentally, physically and emotionally, but the time they spent training last year will ultimately give way to the successful completion of any mission they are assigned.

"Anyone who wears this uniform today," said McCarthy, "take great pride in yourself. You are the ones who will bring this nation through this crisis safely. We are going to finish this business, and then we are going to bring you home to your families."