MARINE CORPS AIR STATION NEW RIVER, N.C. - Two retired Marine officers and Medal of Honor recipients gave a professional military education (PME) session to Marines at the Marine Corps Air Station New River Theater, Oct. 30.
The first speaker, retired Maj. Gen. James E. Livingston, served in the Marine Corps from 1962-1995 and was awarded the Medal of Honor May 2, 1968, for leading a number of assaults during the Vietnam War and continuously leading his men despite being twice wounded by grenade fragments.
The second speaker, retired Col. Harvey C. Barnum Jr., served as a Marine officer from 1962-1989 and was awarded the Medal of Honor for gallantry and intrepidity in Vietnam where he reorganized the replacement of key personnel, led attacks on enemy positions and successfully led a platoon on a counterattack on key enemy positions.
The speakers talked about what it was like when they were in and addressed what they saw in today’s Marine Corps.
One of the topics was suicide among active-duty Marines.
“Even one Marine lost to suicide is too much,” said Barnum. “Marines need to be sure they are taking care of their own at all times by being observant of their fellow Marines and ensuring that every Marine receives the help or assistance they need.”
The speakers also addressed the Marines about using the services available to them.
“If you notice a change in a fellow Marine’s demeanor, it is better to be safe rather than sorry,” said Livingston. “There is a wealth of help available for all Marines of their families, whether they are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression or family trouble, we need to ensure that every Marine stays in the fight.”