MGySgt George T. Curtis

[beddoe]

It is my sad duty to report the death of POPASMOKE V.P. and my good friend George Curtis this past weekend.

Burial with full military honors will be held at Highland cemetery in Norwood, Massachusetts on Monday 9/26 at 10 am.

http://maps.yahoo.com/py/maps.py?Pyt=Typ&name=Highland+Cemetery&desc=(781)+762-1149&csz=Norwood+MA+02062&country=us&ed=UqiEvK160SwC_h_cYX9remZ8rA--

Reception to follow at the Norwood VFW Post at 11 am.

http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?name=Veterans+of+Foreign+Wars&desc=%28781%29+762-6910&csz=Norwood+MA+02062&qty=9&cs=10&ds=n&ed=siOudK160Sy8GIw7DUCgsYCcBuInfA1A8l9r5jvJ2oZHGGp S97HSREs0E.zqRQMzcLU-&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb

[Lucky The Dog]

It's at times like this when one wishes they could come up with the right words to express the great sadness we all feel upon hearing such bad news. I guess just speaking from the heart is the best I can hope to do.

For many reunions, and on the website, George has always been one of the guys you could count on to ensure that the job got done, and done right...a reflection I am sure of how he approached challenges he dealt with in the Marine Corps, Vietnam, etc. His dedicated work ethic behind the scenes for "Pop A Smoke" was well known by those who worked with him. He never sought out recognition for what he did, he just got the mission accomplished with a tremendously deep commitment to his fellow Marines. The organization has truly lost one of its best. Pictured below is our webmaster Wally Beddoe and "Curt" at the 2002 Reunion in Pensacola.

This is a terrible, tragic loss. Semper Fi, George...we will meet again.

Roger Herman

[jdullighan]

When I logged onto Popasmoke this morning I saw the post in the obituary column about George Curtis, I had the feeling of "Oh God, let it be a mistake." But I'm afraid it isn't.

Over the years I received many pictures from Curt, to work on with Photoshop to see if I could improve them. I took a quick look through my files and found these 3 showing him as a young sergeant/crew chief. I know there are others. I never served with Curt, so I have no pictures I took myself. I always intended to take his picture at Re-unions in his "coat of many colors" but he was such a mobile fireball, I couldn't get him to stand still while he was in range. I am glad to see that Wally had his picture taken with George.

We often exchanged emails, with him saying, "Can you tone that down a bit". I remember when someone made a personal attack on me, George rode to the rescue, putting the attacker firmly in his place. I got the idea where he stood in the hierarchy of this country when my daughter, who works as a physicist at Lincoln Labs was getting her security clearance. Because I was born in England I drew the attention of the Security watchdogs. "He knows Marine Corps Lt General Karamarkavich", she said. "Oh yes", they said, "anyone else". "Master Gunnery Sergeant Curtis". Now that means something", they said. He can easily BS a General but no-one BSs a USMC senior NCO".

Goodbye George. You were one of the best. My heart goes out to your family and my prayers are with you.

You shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old.
Age shall not weary you nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember you.

[utopiatex]

I cannot recall attending a single reunion at which George Curtis was not busy as hell selflessly working on Popasmoke business while we were all walking around shopping and visiting. This is a really big loss for the organization. One only has to look through each discussion string and see just how much this man did for us. He was always around to answer questions and provide information. Tough, tough man to lose.

Prayers and kind wishes to his family and close friends.

McNair

[Ryan]

I never got to meet George, but he always answered my questions.

Will miss you George.

Hand salute ready two.

Semper Fi,
Ryan

[jrmonroe]

Although I never met George, I felt like I knew him. So many parts of this site have his finger prints all over them. He truly was a glue that helped bind us together and will be sorely missed. One can only imagine the load he took of Wally in the everyday transactions on this site. George let Chesty know we're carrying on!!! Semper Fi

Randy Monroe
Sgt HML-167
70-71

[jejacobs]

Through the exchanged emails and from the few times when we spoke, he always impressed me as all "Marine", and that is how I will remember him.

God Speed and Semper Fi -

[pm3777]

Hope the final flight is smooth ,you will be sorely missed by many. A large load for your friend Wally! God Speed , SF PM

[Al Barbour]

You loaned us a hard working Marine who for many years made a tremendous difference in the Marine Corps and later here at the USMC Combat Helicopter Association in every way. He ran the "visual website" with much effort, and tremendous success. He went out of his way to answer inquiries of anyone, Marine or otherwise, on our Notam Board. He contributed significantly as Vice President and Board Member of Popasmoke.

You can be proud of his contributions, as we were dependent on them. We will miss him, and will look forward to greeting him one fine day on those Marine guarded "streets of heaven".

Here's a hearty farewell to you, brother,
Al

[GARY ALLS]

As I read of the passing of George, I like everyone was shocked and sadden. What a tragic loss not only for our organization but for his family and close friends . He will be truly missed.

SEMPER FI MARINE !!

Gary Alls
HMM-263 ‘66-‘67

[jdullighan]

A few more I found

[budster]

I am at a total loss as to what to say about my friend, neighbor and consumate Marine MGSgt. George "Curt" Curtis! George contacted me a few years ago to let me know a fellow HMM-363 crewmate lived in the same town and what a coincidence that was. I met him a short time later at the wake of another family friend and fellow Marine who had died unexpectedly. From there we shared many memories of serving in the same squadron, he arriving in country for the first time right after I had left. The knowledge and stamina this man had was phenomenal. We enjoyed each others company in P-Cola in 2002. Had a blast, even though he worked a lot in Reno in 2004. Drove him and the Grand Marshall in the Caddy with the top down in the local Memorial Day parade this year and he loved it. Said sure beats marching on a hot day! Now this close friend and fellow Marine is gone and I can not begin to tell you the loss I feel about the empty seat beside me. This organization has lost a truly Great Man and a Marine of exceptional calibre. My deepest sympathy to his family, friends and most of all us. Semper Fi my brother, please stand guard over us all as the brightest light in God's Kingdom. Peace Marine, Budster!!

[mspain]

My deepest condolences to George's family.

I remember when George came to HML367 in Phu Bai. I was told by older, very experienced Marines at the time that "he was back". They said he was excellent, experienced, and an asset to the squadron. My experiences with George proved them correct.

Years later as a civilian, I met an old friend from Phu Bai. I mentioned George's name and immediately the person said, "Oh, yeah! I know George well. He taught me so much."

When I finally joined Pop-a-Smoke and subsequently had questions, George was, as usual, an invaluable resource.

God speed, George.

Mike Spain

[Cpl Ski]

To say that Curt will be missed would be the understatement of the decade. God bless and safe journey,

Cpl Ski

[Garfield411]

I never had the pleasure of meeting Mgsgt Curtis in person, but like many here on the website, he answered many of my questions. I served in HMM-261, and was at New River in the early 80's when he was stationed there. I found out that I knew a lot of the same Marines he did. My prayers go out to him and his family. This makes what I went through with Hurricane Katrina seem small and insignificant, puts it all into persepective. It is a sad day indeed. Semper Fi Top, and Gods speed.

Chris Breaux
Garfield 411
UH-1N and CH-53D
Crew Chief

[Mike Mullen]

I had the good fortune of meeting Curt for the first time at the Reunion...after corresponding with him for a long time at Popasmoke....he was a large part of the heart and the mind of Popasmoke.....his command of Marine Corps history was impressive, and his love of the Corps, inspiring. His spirit will always be with us, and his memory will make him a huge part of our brotherhood in the future...as long as we are this side of eternity.

Semper Fidelis my brother; we will all meet again.

Mike

[mark behnke]

My thoughts are with George's family.

Such a lost to the organization. George was a true Marine that had love for his family and his Corps. After leaveing Vietnam, I had not seen George until the reunion in Reno. He had changed very little, still dedicated to his duty and the Corps. It was my pleasure to have served with such a great Marine.

Semper Fi, George

Mark Behnke
HML 367 69/70

[jdullighan]

I've been thinking about George all day, remembering the many things about the man, most amusing, some not. I remember when there was a dicussion on Popasmoke as to whether the H-46 could water taxi. There was more than one picture on Popasmoke of the H-46 taking a dive below the waves. George emailed me and asked me what the answer was. I replied that the bird could water taxi, in fact I attached pictures to prove it. But you had better make sure the ramp seals were intact. I got a one sentence email back from George which said "Why have you not posted this to Popasmoke". George took his role as an instructor seriously and made sure that I did too.


If I got interesting photo assignments I would send him copies. One he particularly liked was a concert by a very leggy pop star called "Ashanti". I pointed out that it only looked like I was on the stage with her, I was actually about 100 meters away, using a 600mm lens. George said "Right, I could protest all I wanted to, he admired the way I volunteered for the tough jobs".

I covered a USMC Reserve transport unit being called to active duty. The CO, a Lt Col, and the Sergeant Major were both lawyers, working for the same law firm. The SM was the managing partner and the CO quite a lot junior. The SM said that he had the best job in the unit and had no desire to be an officer. George agreed with him

George, nobody is going to be able to fill the hole you've just left.

[kabal]

So, here it is.

I knew George, briefly, but I did have the honor- online- to speak to him. It crushed me to know that someone I personally knew from this site is gone.

It was my dream to finally soon, get to meet everyone here in person at a reunion. I guess the reunion date with myself and George will be the Big One. That is fine...but, it saddens me in my a selfish way....ohhh,...for I know him as a loving and a smart soul.....the earth is void one less totally valuable human being.

The Angel picked her favorite man .....How can we Deny Her?

George....I hardly knew ye.....

Guess I will see you soon enough...

Semper Fidelis

to the rest of you...
Love,

Cindi/aka Kabal.

[Kel7724]

I am at a loss for words other than my condolences to the Curtis Family and Curt's friend's. George was my Maintenance Chief in '364 in the mid '80's when the squadron was reactivated. He was instrumental in training me as a crewchief, mech and as a Marine. He was great leader who cared about his Marines, he demanded a lot, but gave you back twice as much. Curt, you will be missed. God Bless.

Joe Kelly
HMM-364 '85-89

[easy]

This is a sad day in our history. George was all Marine and got the mission accomplished on every occasion. With men like this our organization succeeded beyond anyone's dreams. He will be missed and as President Reagan said:

"Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering
if they've made a difference. The Marines don't
have that problem."

Semper Fi, George and rest in peace

[Bull79Dog]

'WE' had our disagreements, but George was always "ON TOP', he knew his business, he knew the corps, he knew how to be "VP'. He was a true "MARINE' in all sence of the word, George will be missed. SEMPER FIDELIS are words he lived buy.

[tripper]

I was truly saddened to learn of Curt's untimely death.

George was always on hand to help with PopASmoke and HMM-363 issues. The visions of Vietnam section of our website is a memorable testament to his hard work and dedication.

George provided words of comfort to a close friend whose son (a Cobra Pilot) was killed in Iraq and worked with him to secure additional information.

He was the epitomy of a "fine" Marine.

God bless and keep you Curt.

[Bill Weaver]

Semper Fidelis my brother---Go with God.

[George T Curtis Jr.]

I would like to thank everyone for all the kind words about my father.

He loved the Marine Corps and popasmoke and it was the greatest joy in his life for the last 5 years to be able to help so many Marines, corpsman and families. He was proud of what the site had become and he had great respect for all of you.

I spoke at length with Wally a few times on the telephone in the last few days and I cannot thank him enough for all the emotional support. It means alot. Budster dropped by the house last night as well and had a nice chat with my mother and I, and I hope to see him again soon. Everyone has been so supportive and believe me, it means alot. one of these days when my mother is ready, I will let her read through this thread as I am sure she will be proud (as I am) to read what an impact he had on so many of you.

He left quite a legacy behind here and I know he will be proud as he watches it continue to grow. In the coming days I'm going to be digging through his photos and as I find them I will continue to share them with all of you, his brothers (and sisters).

Many people have asked if they could donate or send flowers and cards... my mother has asked not to send any flowers (since they die so easily). We are thinking about establishing some kind of a fund or scholorship in his name, but we haven't quite decided what yet. When we made any concrete decisions, I will be sure to let you all know.

Our home address is as follows:

58 A highview Street
Norwood, MA 02062

For those of you who would like to read the obituary, here is a link:

http://www.legacy.com/bostonglobe/LegacySubPage2.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=15162162

There is also a guest book for people to leave messages, either for my father or for my family. Please feel free to sign it - I know my mother and I will be happy to see how many other people who were touched by my dad.

http://www.legacy.com/bostonglobe/Guestbook.asp?Page=Guestbook&PersonID=15162162

Thanks again for everything. My father was proud to be a Marine and extremely proud of his work here at popasmoke. If I can do anything, answer any questions or help with travel arrangements for those of you who may be attending the services, please feel free to email or call me:

gtcurtis@norwoodlight.com
781-255-1769

Semper Fi

George T Curtis Jr.

[beddoe]

Burial with full military honors will be held at Highland cemetery in Norwood, Massachusetts on Monday 9/26 at 10 am.

http://maps.yahoo.com/py/maps.py?Pyt=Typ&name=Highland+Cemetery&desc=(781)+762-1149&csz=Norwood+MA+02062&country=us&ed=UqiEvK160SwC_h_cYX9remZ8rA--

Reception to follow at the Norwood VFW Post at 11 am.

http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?name=Veterans+of+Foreign+Wars&desc=%28781%29+762-6910&csz=Norwood+MA+02062&qty=9&cs=10&ds=n&ed=siOudK160Sy8GIw7DUCgsYCcBuInfA1A8l9r5jvJ2oZHGGp S97HSREs0E.zqRQMzcLU-&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb

[Top A]

Semper Fi Brother
All above have said it all. U was many times in different sqd with george as was an Outstanding Marine.

[walt99]

Rest In peace Brother ,May God"s Grace Shine On You. SF

[beddoe]

Submitter:
Donna L. Goguen <donna-l-goguen@excite.com>

Message:
I tried to post something, but since I'm not a Marine I can't. But I am retired US ARMY. So I will at least get to tell all of you. I am sorry for the loss of George T. Curtis. He was a wonderful friend, a good husband and father and a damn good Marine. I spoke with his wife Sharon tonight, and she told me to go to www.popasmoke.com and I did. It was so nice to see all the wonderful words you all had to say about George. You see I used to work for George back in the early to mid seventies. He was a recruiter in Norwood. And I'd make calls, send out info to all the High School grads, and set up his appts. That's how we met. I've even been to the Marine Corps Birthday Ball with Sharon and George. In fact, I lived with Sharon and George for awhile. I needed a place to stay and they were there for me. I remember when George Jr. was born. I can picture George walking into the office and tossing his hat on the table and him saying what've you got for me today. Since I heard of his death from my Mom, I've been remembering so many things about George. He touched so many lives and was loved by many. I know he is watching over us all. God Rest his soul. God Bless all of you also. Keep up the good work here. From what I can see this is an awesome site.
SF.
Donna L. Goguen
Retired USA.

[Bigfootmarine]

Semper Fi, George! We "grunts" always appreciated a ride in a bird. Now the big bird in the sky is taking you to meet with all the brothers who have gone before you. You gave of yourself in Vietnam and continued to do so by helping others on this website. You are missed.

[Rad]

I crewed with him a few times in Nam and he made a helluva impression on me. Me, being about 6'2" and over 200lbs, thought of him as a kid, at first, because he was smaller and seemed young. I was 21 but he couldn't have been much younger. His stature grew in my mind after a few missions, We had a call for an emergency medevac. We had no corpsman. But we went in and picked up a wounded Marine. They handed him to us in a poncho along with an 'IV'. As we lifted off and turned towards base, George was down on the floor putting the 'IV' into this poor guy. I thought ‘wow’; this guy is 'something else'. I hope the Marine made it and I wish George had.

[jdullighan]

I attended George Curtis' Memorial service Monday and be;pw are a few of the pictures I took.

1. The two sergeants who folded the flag over Georges grave.
2. Flag presented to Mrs Sharon Curtis, Widow of George Curtis, by Sergeant Major Eric Loya.
3. George Curtis Jr. with his mother.
4. Grave site.
5. Popasmoke members in attendance.

Semper Fi

[jdullighan]

1. Curtis family.
2. Spreading the Flag.
3. Folding the Flag.
4. Presenting the Fag.
5. Sgt Mjr ERIC LOYA receives the flag.

[Brian Murphy]

You don't know what you've got 'til it's gone....

I had known George Curtis for a long, time. He married Sharon with whom I went to school from k-12. He came to Norwood in time, I believe, to recruit at least one of my siblings into the Corps, (four brothers and two sisters served), but he didn't get me. My parent were both marines. George was a special friend to my family. Though he never knew my brother Richard who was KIA 6/15/68 while with Mike Co. 3/4 Third Mar. Div., he was the driving force behind a rededication of his park 30 years later. In this, he proved to be "Always Faithful." He stressed upon me how it would take effort to keep alive the memories of our fallen.

The ceremony at Highland Cemetery was a fitting tribute to George and his family. He had stood in the same cemetery for my family's funerals. I was honored to attend and salute him for his service.

I extend additional condolences to all of his friends in Popa Smoke. I have visited your page before and it was suggested I look at the tributes posted here for George. As I have recently been in touch with over a dozen of my brother's comrades and met many of them at their battalion reunion this summer, I have witnessed what you Marines mean to each other. Knowing that and knowing George I know you're hurting. He was in good company with you and is in good company now.

Semper Fi,

Brian Murphy
Lieutenant,
Norwood Police
Norwood, MA
bmurphy@ci.norwood.ma.us

[Tom Thompson]

John,

Thanks for posting the pictures of Curt's memorial service for those of us that were unable to attend.

His passing has left a trememdous void in his family, our association and all of those whose lives he touched. Without a doubt, he's probably pulling a pre-flight on God's helicopter at this very moment.

Hand Salute

Semper Fi

Tom

[johnolivarri]

I did have the pleasure of knowing George while serving with HMM-363. We were together in Viet Nam in 1968. We flew together several times, during that time we always found time to talk and learn from each other. When I saw George at the reunion it felt really good to talk of times we shared. I believe must people may never understand the bound Marines share. But those that got to meet George had some idea of the character, the loyalty and the spirit most Marines are blessed with. I pray that God grant George his peace as he enters that last flight from which no crew member returns.



Semper Fi

Ollie

HMM 363/Lucky Red Lions

[Darrell Asplund]

SEMPER FI MARINE!

I never met George, but I knew of him as a
driviing force for Pop-a-Smoke!
May God be with his family and friends at this
time.
He was a brother!

SEMPER FI!

[Dan Crawford]

George posted a picture of us together at his hootch on the website. In the commentary he said, "two friends enjoying each other's company". I guess that was a typical day with George. I never called him Curt although so many did. Words are not needed for those who knew him and would be inadequate, anyway. I will say this. George was a decent, good man who always made everyone feel special and always made any event, no matter how small, seem like the most important thing in the world. I know he is in heaven getting something organized and that one day we will sit down with him to tell those wonderful stories one more time. Semper Fi, George. No one ever had a better brother. My sympathy to his family and my gratitude for sharing him with all of us.

[bfwise]

No words I can write here can come close to really describing George. He was my mentor and my friend. We use to carpool together to SoWeymouth from Otis ANGB everyday for three years. He was always there for his Marines.
There is a good article on the kind of person George was in the June 1966 issue of Leaterneck Magazine. He never quit! Godspeed george!
Semper Fi

Bruce Wise
Msgt USMC Ret.
Mag 49 and HML 771

[WILBUR]

I had the pleasure of serving (albiet briefly) with George at NAS So. Weymouth in the early 80's. What a guy! True professional and example for all we young crew cheifs back then and he continues to lead, even in his passing. He taught us to be proud, professional, and dedicated. Band of brothers was not a saying to George, but a way of life. Gee, I don't need to tell any of you that!

God bless his family and may George keep soaring with the eagles!

Matt (Wilbur) Whitacre
MGuns Ret.

[Scooter]

To the family,
First of all let me say how much this saddens me to learn of the passing. Please accept my condolences to the entire family, friends, and fellow Marines. My relationship started with George T. Curtis when I transferred to South Weymouth in 1979. Soon after that I realized what a great friend George was and how well respected throughout the Corps he was. If George needed something he got it and as you well know in the Corps that is rare. One of the first times he introduced me to his family was during Christmas. It was nothing for George to take on something which brought so much joy to all. That was when I saw his father-in-law, Russ (a great American), dressed as Santa Claus entertaining each and every child. It's no news to anyone which knew George that he did things his way!!! I am still in the Marine Corps after 28.5 years because of Marines like George and I love every minute of that experience. I am just about to depart on yet another deployment, Iraq, as the I MEF Forward SgtMaj. George taught me valuable survival skills which I will never forget..
God Bless the Curtis Family!

SgtMaj Tom Howard
AKA "Scooter"

[Darrell Asplund]

Godd luck to you SgtMaj Howard.
May God be with you and your Marines in Iraq!

Semper Fi

[Roy Pitt]

Well, this has taken me a while, but here goes the story. GTC will edit this but you will all get the gist of it.
I got a note from a brother that had lost all of his photos over the 35 years that we have spent being just folks. He asked me if I could find some pic's to show his grandkid's. GTC and I were at Marble back then so, I called him about this. He took it on, like he did everything else and sent me a disc with over 100 pic's from that time. I sent it on to our brother.
If it ment something deep, GTC knew it, and came through. I made it a point to say hi to Geo. at P'Cola and he and his wife at Reno. He was a friend, a brother, and a Marine that makes me proud to have been a Marine.
See you all in FW, I for one will be thinking of George.
Roy/ARM

[Papa Smurf]

It greatly saddens me to learn today of George's passing. I am way out of the loop, but my relation with George also comes from S. Weymouth in 1979.
Please accept my condolences and god speed to all his family
George was a MARINE amongst Marines and his traits bared heavily in my career

[Jan Campbell Pierce]

George. . . we remember always. .with love, respect and appreciation for all that you brought to us.

Semper Fi,

Jan

[George T Curtis Jr.]

It's hard to believe it has been a year now, but thanks to everyone for remembering my father. He was extremely proud to be involved with this website and the great work everyone is doing here, and the members have been extremely supportive to myself and my family and helped us get through a very tough time.

Semper Fi

George Curtis Jr.

[budster]

George: Still in our hearts and minds, this is an anniversary that saddens me deeply. I go by the Post nearly everyday and think of you each time. The loss is still strong but in my heart I pray you are in peace. Guide us all and continue to be the leader you always were. Peace Marine, Dick

[rdcassel13]

If I could preface this by saying there is no way I could ever put into words all that Master Gunnery Sergeant George Curtis was to me, my fellow Marines, or to the world in general.

I had the honor and privilege of serving with "George" at South Weymouth from 1989 until his retirement in 1991, and up until a few days ago I had lost contact with him when I found his profile on a Marine site together we served.
It broke my heart to learn of his passing.

As a young Staff Sergeant coming off a three year tour as a recruiter the first thing he did in office when he welcomed me was introduce himself as “George”. He didn’t care that I was a fixed wing Avionics puke (lol). I was completely caught off guard on that one, here was a Master Gunnery Sergeant with well over twenty years of service welcoming me to the unit as a friend first and a Marine second. Don’t misunderstand that he wasn’t a Marines Marine, if you messed up he would certainly give you an ear full, but the point is what made him such a good leader was a genuine concern for the Marines he lead. The best advice he ever gave me was to “always take care of the guys YOU work FOR” to this day I still lead that way.

Living on Cape Cod, I was invited to the “car pool” with George, Mike Crivier (sp), and Art Burns and the lessons I learned on those trips I still use today. Besides the Nam stories (lol), and Harley discussions, he would quiz us on different scenarios about leadership with things that you really had to think about. To this day it was the best leadership development I have ever had just four guys in a car discussing stuff.

Although I mourn his passing, I will not dwell on that, because he lives on through me and countless others he taught. As a Marine I use to wonder what it would be like to have meant Chesty Puller, looking back, I now know he would have been just like Master Gunnery Sergeant George Curtis.

Semper Fi
SSGT Rick Cassel
1977-1993

[budster]

As I prepare for our 1st 363 reunion in PCola I again remember my friend George on the cusp of this 2nd anniversary of his death. I know we would have made great plans to attend together, now I'll meet with our squadron mates and remember the times we had. They say time heals all wounds and I really believe it but sometimes there's a void you just never seem to be able to fill. George, please guide us all and provide us with the direction to complete our goals. Semper Fi Marine and thanks!! Budster

[popasmoke]

Well said Budster, I think you said exactly what a lot of us are thinking. I miss his friendship and his counsel.

[jdullighan]

It is two years now since George died and I agree with Budster, there are some people one never forgets and the hole they leave in your life never fills, it just changes shape. George was such a person and I miss him constantly. and I suspect I always will. And you know what, if a feeling of sadness the rest of my life is the price for having known George, it is well worth it. If I could I'd trade almost anything I have (except my two daughters) for more time with him.

It is a rare day that I don't think of him, not in any maudlin way but just seeing something or someone that reminds me of him or I hear of something he did. For instance when my daughter, who works at Lincoln Labs at Hanscome AFB and now has a Top Secret clearance, was being cleared for Secret, she was in a special category because I was born in England. She was interrogated about me and my background. She told them: Secret clearance, worked for Boeing, served with USMC and the US Navy, etc.

"Anybody from the military, who knew him", they asked.

She mentioned Genarals, Admirals, Colonels, all of whom they wrote down.

"Does he know any NCOs", they asked.

"Is Master Gunnery Sergeant an NCO", she asked, all innocent like. Boy, did they perk up.

"He certainly is", they replied. Name please, address, phone number, etc".

"Why so interested", she asks.

They laughed. "It's easy for a Brit to bullshit Generals and Admirals, they all fall in love with the accent. But nobody, but nobody bullshits a senior NCO of the Marine Corps for long. "He isn't impressed by accents", just can he do the job and can he be trusted."?

They later told her that George gave me the OK and when asked "Would you trust this man?" he replied, "With my life." They told her they were impressed. Master Gunnery Sergeants are not known for handing out casual praise.

That, from Master Gunnery Sergeant George E. Curtis, USMC has to be the greatest compliment a man could receive and I certainly think of it that way. He said that he thought of me as another Marine, although I do not have that honor. I was stunned when I heard that.-

She got her clearance and now she can't talk to me about anything she is working on. Just as well, since I can't understand it anyway, a fact she finds hard to believe. "But Dad, Quantum Mechanics is easy." Sure it is, especially for an MIT Masters grad.


She recently told me that she was working as a bad guy, trying to beat our fire control radar and when she does, she has to help dreaming up a solution. She says it's very satisfying. She knows she has saved some lives, her operational contacts have told her of a couple of times her solutions worked.

"Does that mean the other guys were killed". I asked.

"Probably", she said. "I don't really know and I don't really care. The threat ceased to be a threat to my guy. That's all I care about. If the other guy get's killed well that's too bad. If he can't take a joke he shouldn't have joined. (she got that expression from me.) She's a chip off the old block I would say.

Tongue in cheek, I asked her she felt about the guys on the other side. Wasn 't she a bit sorry for them, all this power arraigned against them. She looked at me as if I was totally of off the wall.

"What are you talking about", She asked. "Sorry for him, are you crazy. I want to get him and save my guy. If the other guy wants to live then find an other line of work. Then I'll leave him alone. Until then I'm out to get him and I will.

Then she started to laugh, "You're just rattling my cage aren't you. It was you who tiold me,

"Get there firstsest with the mostest "

"Your opponant should be dead before he even knew he was in a fight"

"Get him down, keep him down and don't ever let him get up"/

"Don't fight fair. Win, that makes it fair."

I have those mottos hung up in my ofiice, attributed to "The Gospel According to Dad" Apparently she said, so many times in her first year there "According to my dad..." or "My Dad says..." that they had a joke which said "The Gosel according to DAD."

A great perk for me is if she dates a guy more than a couple of times, she has to report it to the security people who then check him out. How about that, all you fathers of nubile daughters out there. Isn't that a great use for your tax dollars. I think so. She's on flight status, qualified first time she tried, including all the de-compression crap. They have 5 jets to play with. It was her birthday last week and for her present, she wants my leather flight jacket, 39 years old and suitably 'weathered', which she says will impress the test pilots and drive the other guys razy. I wouldn't let her mother have it or even wear it but daughters are different, anyway I'm too old to wear it. A lot of the guys in her group don't like to fly and she loves it. She takes as many of their flights as she can get. Her boss told me when he interviewed her, her resume was lready impressive but when she said, "I like to fly", he thought he'd died and gone to heaven.
'm coming to Boston this Friday Sept 14. I just may be able to get a person or two in to see Lincoln Labs and if not, maybe we could meet Saturday evening for a drink. Call me on my cell. 610 731 1168., if anyone is interested.

John Dullighan

[Joe Reed]

John Dulligan said:
It was her birthday last week and for her present, she wants my leather flight jacket, 39 years old and suitably 'weathered', which she says will impress the test pilots and drive the other guys crazy.

John,
Not to "hijack" the thread on George, but he'd be proud too....That's wonderful! HMM-165 will have a prominent place in the future, regardless of what may happen to us "helo types"! I feel certain that the HMM-165 patch is still proudly displyed on the front of the jacket as is the one from "Boeing Vertol"!! Need to post a pic of her wearing it if you are allowed to. Proud Papa!

[jdullighan]

I hope my post is appropriate. I wanted to tell how George would help people and how much respect he was given by even the 'starchy' folks in security. They have no sense of humor. My daughter knew how much repect I had for George but she was astonished by the reaction of the security people and the respect they hsd for George.

[widow1]

I only knew him from the board, but always read his posts and was happy he didn't ban me! He provided answers and info politely, even if he disagreed.

Wish I had the privilege of knowing him personally and condolences to his family, he left some big shoe prints.

Words from The Bard, ( overlook the characters' titles, or don't, whatever suits you );
St. Crispen's Day Speech
William Shakespeare, 1599

Enter the KING

WESTMORELAND. O that we now had here
But one ten thousand of those men in England
That do no work to-day!

KING. What's he that wishes so?
My cousin Westmoreland? No, my fair cousin;
If we are mark'd to die, we are enow
To do our country loss; and if to live,
The fewer men, the greater share of honour.
God's will! I pray thee, wish not one man more.
By Jove, I am not covetous for gold,
Nor care I who doth feed upon my cost;
It yearns me not if men my garments wear;
Such outward things dwell not in my desires.
But if it be a sin to covet honour,
I am the most offending soul alive.
No, faith, my coz, wish not a man from England.
God's peace! I would not lose so great an honour
As one man more methinks would share from me
For the best hope I have. O, do not wish one more!
Rather proclaim it, Westmoreland, through my host,
That he which hath no stomach to this fight,
Let him depart; his passport shall be made,
And crowns for convoy put into his purse;
We would not die in that man's company
That fears his fellowship to die with us.
This day is call'd the feast of Crispian.
He that outlives this day, and comes safe home,
Will stand a tip-toe when this day is nam'd,
And rouse him at the name of Crispian.
He that shall live this day, and see old age,
Will yearly on the vigil feast his neighbours,
And say 'To-morrow is Saint Crispian.'
Then will he strip his sleeve and show his scars,
And say 'These wounds I had on Crispian's day.'
Old men forget; yet all shall be forgot,
But he'll remember, with advantages,
What feats he did that day. Then shall our names,
Familiar in his mouth as household words-
Harry the King, Bedford and Exeter,
Warwick and Talbot, Salisbury and Gloucester-
Be in their flowing cups freshly rememb'red.
This story shall the good man teach his son;
And Crispin Crispian shall ne'er go by,
From this day to the ending of the world,
But we in it shall be remembered-
We few, we happy few, we band of brothers;
For he to-day that sheds his blood with me
Shall be my brother; be he ne'er so vile,
This day shall gentle his condition;
And gentlemen in England now-a-bed
Shall think themselves accurs'd they were not here,
And hold their manhoods cheap whiles any speaks
That fought with us upon Saint Crispin's day.

[Jan Campbell Pierce]

George .. . you are as always, in our thoughts and prayers . ..

[beddoe]

I miss you Curt!

Curtis Family Photos:
http://public.fotki.com/gtcurtis/curtis_family_pics/george_t_curtis/

[MSgt Clark]

I met MGySgt Curtis when I was stationed at NAS So Weymouth in the late 80's. At first glance you couldn't help but be impressed by the way he carried himself and the automatic respect he seemed to get from everyone.
I recall a CAX at 29 Palms where Master Gunny had all the SNCO's in one of those A-Frames each evening for some PME discussions. I learned a whole lot and referred back to some of the things I learned from him over the rest of my career.
He would always bring his Service 'C' uniform even to the field in the off chance he would have to rescue one of his Marines from PMO or the local authorities. On one occasion in Yuma one of our Marines got a DUI on Base, the next morning I saw Master Gunny in his Charlies with all his ribbons heading to the Base CO's office. Next thing you know our Marine was back and all was forgotten.
He will always be a fond memory and the kind of Marine that we can all say we were proud and fortunate enough to serve with.

Semper Fi "GT" until we meet again.

Thom R Clark
MSgt USMC (Ret)
1981-2004

[bobdag]

George was my hootchmate in 1969 with HML-367. I never had a chance to see him after Nam but I knew who he was and respected all his work for Popasmoke. He and I were E-5 Sgts. at the time in Phu Bai and we tipped a few together between getting shot at. For those who remember we built a mini club between 2 hootches and had some great parties.

[jdullighan]

It is coming up to 3 years since we lost George. I was thinking about what I might do to preserve his memory and it occured to me that a booklet, summarising his life, career and accomplishments would be something I would like to see. The more I thought about it the better I liked the idea and who better to do it than I.

I deeply respected George. He was the quintessential Marine. who held himself to the highest standards and gave you no excuse not to do the same. He led by example and if you performed at less than what he expected from you , you would hear about it. Telling him that it was 35 years since I did that job and I wasn't Marine,remember, cut no ice. "If you don't remember you know where to get the answers, don't you"? he would ask. "Then do it." As for not being a Marine, I accepted the friendship, so I must accept the duty.

I knew him reasonably well and we corresponded a lot. He always said he held me to a higher standard than most because Boeng and the Marine Corps had laid out good bucks to give me the education that I had and he insisted that I use it. If questions came up that should be answered, remember that there were Marines out there still flying the airplane. And I'd better be right or else. I used to tell him that all that Boeing and the USMC had paid out to educate me brought me to the level of a good experienced crew chief.

"I'll be the judge of that". he said.

I'm a reasonable writer and I have the time. I'm not a Marine as most of you know but I have been described as being as close as yiou can get without actually being one. The Marine Corps motto and ethos have always appealed to me and I accept them as my own. Combined with a Jesuit education I have the confidence that I will be writing about a person whose character and makeup I understand and believe I can do justice to.

WELL GUYS, WHAT ABOUT IT? AM I THE GUY TO WRITE ABOUT GEORGE? IF SO, CAN I GET YOUR HELP????

Anything you can think of will be great. Stories about him as a young crew chief. Such as the tale of being made to sit down by his squadron commander and write his mother, at the request of Senator Kennedy's office. (most of us can relate to that) and if it isn't true it should be. How did he get promoted. What was he like to fly with. How was he to work for. Anything that will shed light on him. I want to feel that anyone who knew him will be able to say when they resd it. "Yes that's George", and those who didn't know him personally will get a true picture. I want to immortalise him; we forget so soon and so completely.

His family must agree of course. I would never do anything without their wholehearted approval and if possible, co-operation. They would have absolute veto over anything published, from a single item up to the whole publication. Since I would not claim that this was history I would not be obliged to include anything, I, the family or any other person with reasonable standing did not want published. I hope that the way I was able to handle the local press at Georges funeral would re-assure them that Master Gunnery Sergeant George Curtis is a hero of mine and anything that I was involved with would serve to enhance his reputation.

Much has been written and told about him. Even those tales that may be stretching the truth deserve to be recorded for what they say about George. And, as I was told by my editor when I went to work as a photographer and sometime newspaper reporter. "Never let the facts get in the way of a good story". It is often the apocryphal stories that are closest to the truth". I said in one of my posts that I thought of him ofen and I still do.

And George always reminded me of my own Father who when I was home on leave from Vietnam, introduced me to one of his friends thus "This is my son. He is doing what I dreamed of doing when I was his age". If how often I think of my father is any indication, I will be thinking of George for the rest of my life. George thought constantly of his men and of the young officers whom George believed he needed to teach how to be officers.

My Father lost his father in WW1, when he was 8 years old. He lost all his Uncles on both sides of his family. By the end of WW2, my grandmother had lost every male that she knew of her generation, her brothers, her huband and all her husband's brothers as well as all her friends and aquaintances. Their names are all inscribed on the memorial wall, at Tower Hill, London, comemmorating those of the British Merchant Marine who were lost at sea and who had no known grave.

As a result my father left school early at 14 to help support his family. No GI Bill in those days. My grandmother did receive an elegant large medal, which
I still have and a letter from King Geoge V. Nice but it didn't put food on the table. My father found a job as a technician but received very little formal education. I remember him reading a lot though.

[MSgt Clark]

I own a Military Clothing and Equipment store in Concord, NC. A real close friend of mine Herbert J. Lemon III recently passed away from Liver Cancer, he was 39. Herb was a prior enlisted Marine who made Sergeant in the USMCR, upon graduation he received his Commission and became a Naval Aviator. He flew CH-46's from east coast Squadrons exclusively. He flew Combat missions in Somalia/Haiti with the 24th MEU (SOC). He got out a Captain and was hired by the US Secret Service where he served as an Agent in the Charlotte, NC Field Office. The attachment is a uniform I put together in Honor of him, his service and friendship.

I want to put together a MGySgt CURTIS Service Alpha jacket. I recall he had 19 ribbons in 1991. Can anyone furnish me an accurate list of all his awards? Or a photo of him in his uniform and I can figure it out from there. I might be able to go from memory but being I'm a Marine I'd like to get it right. Any help would be appreciated.

[Joe Reed]

Top Clark,
Great tribute to your friend! I'm certain one of Curtis' friends will provide the info that you need for a similar memorial, or you can look in here for various pictures of him, some in dress blues with ribbons.

[budster]

George: It's 3 years today and the void is still there. Once again we missed you in Washington and I know you would have loved that reunion. The museum is fantastic as I'm sure you've seen from your place on high. It's just not the same without your comments and factoids you were so good with. Just a brief note to say you may be gone but certainly not forgotten. Keep a tight rein on us all and guide us with that platoon in the sky. Semper Fi Marine and may your Peace be eternal, Budster:(:(

[beddoe]

I miss Curt a lot. He was like a big brother.

[beddoe]

Top Clark,
Great tribute to your friend! I'm certain one of Curtis' friends will provide the info that you need for a similar memorial, or you can look in here for various pictures of him, some in dress blues with ribbons.

One photo in Alphas is here, but not sure it will be that much help:
http://www.popasmoke.com/visions/image.php?source=217

[George T Curtis Jr.]

It's wonderful to see how many people remember and miss my father, even three years later. I really do appreciate all the great stories and comments.

John, it's touching that you would be interested in writing something about my father. I have often thought about doing it myself but feared I wouldn't do it justice. I will discuss it with my mother and get back to you.

As far as the ribbons go, here's a photo of my father's ribbons. Hope it helps.

http://img204.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=18926_ribbons_copy_122_191lo.jpg

I also know Brook and maybe some others have been looking for some photos my father may have been working on before he died. I will be digging through both the attic and the basement while we switch over our summer and winter clothes and will check in the many rubbermaid containers full of his things.

If anyone has any other questions, comments, stories etc please feel free to email me anytime- george.curtis@gmail.com

[Jan Campbell Pierce]

George, Jr., three years - but it seems like yesterday. The Campbell Clan motto is "Ne Obliviscaris" - Do not be oblivious of - or better put - Do Not Forget. I dare to say, anyone who knew your dad will never forget him.

The best to you -

Jan

[budster]

:(Once again I prepare for our HMM 363 Reunion in Pensacola and how ironic it starts on the 4th anniversary of George's death. I still miss the guy and although I only knew him a short time it just shows what an impression this fellow squadron mate made on me! What I wouldn't give to still have him around giving his stats, knowledge of the Corps and as an all around information station. I miss you buddy and wish you nothing but peace and joy in your heavenly unit! God Bless:(

[Jan Campbell Pierce]

This morning, I am thinking of all the things that still remind me of George.. . .a motorcycle (with a rider with no helmet), the sound of a chopper. .. .an article in the newspaper . .and mostly, sitting in an airport, waiting for a flight. That was the last time I saw George, in the Reno airport, leaving a reunion to go home. Sitting at a table near a window, he called me over to see the choppers which had been on display at the reunion, leaving Reno, as we were. I'll never forget the look in his eyes, as he watched the young crews take them up.

George - we miss you . .and we remember what you taught us, ---- honor, respect, dignity, patience, and most of all . .. .to be always faithful.

[beddoe]

I'm missing my good friend Curt today and thinking of him five years after he lefts us. He made a difference. Semper Fi Master Guns!

[budster]

Feeling guilty as I thought of my buddy George today but it's some 2+ weeks after the anniversary of his assent to Ooh Rah heaven. Sorry buddy, the older you get the more the mind wanders and things slip away. Thinking of you and praying you're keeping an eye on all of us. Special prayers to "Pops" cause he ain't ready to go yet!! Semper Fi MGYSGT, you are a special guy!!