Delores L. Walker, Free Press Reporter

Carolyn Walker contributed to story

On November the eighth, John and Charlotte O’Steen of Mayo hosted the 228th United States Marine Corps birthday celebration at their country home.



This is the 24th year the O’Steens have honored their fellow Marines with a dinner and the opportunity to share “Sea-Stories,” And, it is the last time the O’Steens will host the celebration. It will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to attend as a very unique and memorable time.



About 50 Marines and their spouses attended the party that got underway with registration starting at 11 am.



After a heartfelt welcome by Mr. O’Steen and the invocation was given by Lt. Paul McPartland, guests were treated to a delicious buffet luncheon largely prepared by Mrs. O’Steen.



The day’s activities included the 228th birthday message from Marine Commandant General M.W. Hagee, read by Major Ira Valentine, USMC, Ret. as well as the traditional cake cutting ceremony carried out by Col. Charles Chapman, USMC, Ret.



Gunnery Sgt. Frederick Peterkin, USMC, Ret. was the guest speaker. Peterkin served in Korea and Viet Nam. He showed videos of new equipment and methods of deployment used today. He discussed the many differences in today’s use of equipment, showing the sea-based strategy that allows quick deployment and re-supply from ships containing full complement of equipment, men, etc., via helicopters, humvees and whatever else is needed.



Once again, Frank Pinciotti, USMC, Ret., and wife Sonya from Lutz, Florida were able to attend. Pinciotti is credited with the quote, “With the grace of God and a few good Marines, McArthur returned to the Phillippines.”



The oldest Marine attending was Clifton Fox of Live Oak. And attending from Mayo were Tom and Shirley Clark. Tom was a SeeBee during his military career.



A memorial service gave tribute to fallen fellow Marines who have died as well as a time to remember those that are currently serving on the front lines of war.



In closing, Mr. O’Steen favored the appreciative crowd with a few rousing songs from his service days. The O’Steens also expressed their gratitude to those who have continually assisted in the birthday parties and Mr. O’Steen particularly thanked his wife for 54 years of marriage and her ‘beyond the call of duty support.’



The day concluded with a feeling of appreciation to have had the opportunity to remember the privilege of living in America…..and the resolve of those that have served so nobly to never forget.