Currently editing: Podcasts, Rome-Holy Sea (5), Tokyo(R3), Jakarta (R3), Seoul (R3), Kuala Lumpur (R2), Colombo (R2), Montevideo (R4), Santo Domingo (R4)
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MSG Memories
Stories from embassy duty, shared by those who stood watch worldwide.
Memories
Sharing moments from embassy tours guarding the world’s frontlines.
Every post tells a story of vigilance, camaraderie, and honor abroad.
Jack McGarry (Brasilia 76/Panama 77) - "From Panama in 1977 we had massive demonstrations (30k+) These demonstrators passed in front of the embassy, along Ave Balboa. They were protesting the Canal Zone Treaty being negotiated by the US (President Carter), and Panama (Omar Torrijos) The embassy was bordered by a boardwalk and the Bay of Panama (Pacific Ocean). We'd been briefed that Cuba had infiltrators that were trying to goad the protesters into violence. We'd assumed posts around the embassy to monitor the crowds over a 2 day period. Panamanian Guards and MPs didn't do anything to stop folks from running up to the embassy to spray paint, or to prevent them from throwing crap at the embassy. The demonstrations ended without incident. I've friends from the 1978 detachment who faced similar demonstrations with no incidents, however... fast forward to 1989, Christmas Eve, during the invasion of Panama, the Embassy was left entirely undefended except for the MSG force (1/6).
For a powerful recounting of that incident by the then NCOIC Staff Sergeant Pellow go to PostOnePodcast.com Episode 12
FAQs
Who shares stories?
Former Marine Security Guards recount their embassy tours worldwide.
What locations featured?
Stories come from posts in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
How are memories preserved?
Through personal accounts, photos, and reflections shared by the Marines themselves.
Yes, we welcome submissions from all former Marine Security Guards.
Can I contribute stories?
Is this site official?
No, this is a community project honoring Marine experiences.