James C. Carroll USMCR
CW04 James C. Carroll USMCR
1925-2007
We are here today to honor and remember Jim Carroll. Jim was Vice President of MCTA for over 20 years and unselfishly devoted his time and presence to building our Association and Foundation. I had the honor and privledge of service with “Gunner Carroll” in Viet Nam as part of First Tank Battalion in 1967 and 68. Jim was an Iwo Jima veteran who had survived that battle when he was a 19 year old boy becoming a man with his rite of passage endured during those fateful days in February and March 1945. Jim was the embodiment of what a real Marine is. He was so deeply affected by the genuine spirit of sacrifice among ordinary Marines and front-line officers. Jim always put the interestes of his men before himself. He knew that the civilian part of our country lives by different laws. It’s law is life and the struggle for survival of the individual. Jim recognized that the civilian part of our country would never be able to merge morally with front line troops where there is patience and resignation and a submission to unthinkable hardships for the sake of one’s fellow Marines. He knew that this is the patience of a great military force, The United States Marine Corps. He had faith in the greatness of the American soul and faith in our cause and in his civilian life he mirrored the values of a great warrior: Loyalty, Wisdom, Courage and Kindness.
Jim’s spirit is a lingering presence for all of us. I do not have the words to tell you how much this modest and self effacing man has meant to me over the years and I am sure if he were here in the flesh today he would say “great Robert, now sound liberty call.” From MCTA “Well done Gunner” We will see you on the other side.
Delivered by:
Lt. Col. Robert M. Johnstone, USMCR
President Marine Corps Tankers Association
“Celebration of Life”
4th Tank Battalion
San Diego, California
January 15th, 2008