USMC CAP UNIT VETERANS ASSOCIATION.

Dec 9, 1996:

Dear Fellow Marine:

Throughout the history of our Corps, Marines have been called upon to further the cause of freedom and democracy. As young Americans strategically deployed throughout Vietnam, you won the admiration and hearts of the Vietnamese people of the villages in which you served, providing not only security but strengthening the government and enhancing the welfare of the local population as well. Your courage and dedication typify all that is good in Marines, and your legacy lives on.

"These were the personal words of our present Commandant, General Charles C. Krulak, USMC, written to CAP Marines and read at our Louisville Reunion during celebration of our Corps 221st. Birthday on November 10, 1996.

"I am pleased to share these words with you because I feel that it is important that you know of our legacy and the great admiration that today's Corps has of your service as a CAP Marine in Vietnam.

"The uniqueness of our organization is that ouur lifespan was a mere six years. We can all identify with CAP because we served in many of the same places, during many of the same months,living the same experiences. CAP Marines are truly a distinguished band of brothers. This combat brotherhood earned the Presidential Unit Citation and the Navy Unit Commendation.

"Most of all it earned the respect of men everywhere.

"During my thirty years as a marine officer I served as a platoon leader in World War II and as a company commander in Korea with the Ist. Marien Division, as a battalion commander in the Dominican Republic with the 2nd. Marine Division, and as Commander, 9th Marines,or the 3d Marine Division in Vietnam.

"However, I can honestly say that my assignment as III MAF Director, Combined Action Program (1968-69) was the tour of duty that I cherish most.

"This is so because of the relationship I was able to establish with the officers and men of the 1st., 2nd., 3d., and 4th. CAGs. The personal dedication and involvement in our mission was most professional and gratifying. You all remain in my memories and I shall always be eternally thnakful for knowing what it is to be a CAP Marine.

"With our [next] reunion we will join in celebrating the 222nd. Birthday of the Corps with the most important men in our lives -- CAP MARINES. I look forward to seeing you there. [In handwritten script!] Let's have a drink together...

"SEMPER FIDELIS and GOD BLESS!

"Most sincerely,

[Signed]

"Ed. Danowitz

"Edward F. Danowitz
"Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.)
"Director, III MAF Combined Action Program (1968-69)"