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Unstolen Valor! Bolden Was a Marine

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Posted By: Stephen Bajza July 30, 2014

unstolenvalor

It all started when NFL player DeAngelo Williams gave up his first class airline seat for an elderly veteran and took a picture of the man. It sounds like the beginning of a heart-warming story, but the Internet started buzzing about whether or not the veteran in question, James Wesley Bolden, had actually served in the U.S. military. The answer seems to be yes, but the truth is, as always, kind of complicated.

With so many service members transitioning into civilian life and the ease of technology, the Internet is filled with stories of stolen valor. For various reasons, civilians sometimes find and wear military uniforms. Sometimes these civilians actively attempt to pass themselves off as a veteran, but it doesn’t take much for a true veteran to spot the discrepancies in their uniforms and stories. This usually leads to a video showing an imposter shying away from an irate veteran.

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Although it was the picture Williams took that attracted the most views, there’s another image, supposedly taken by a Marine who later stopped Bolden and sternly questioned him, pointing out that many of his medals were placed on his uniform incorrectly.

According to WMC Action News, Bolden’s family spoke out for their relative when they caught wind of what was going on. “This was a Marine in every sense of the world,” said James H. Bolden, former Memphis police director and cousin to Wesley Bolden. “That’s almost akin to someone saying you’re not a citizen when you’ve been here in this country and you have represented it well,” H. Bolden said.

H. Bolden claims that Wesley Bolden enlisted in the Marines when he was 17 years old, and went on to serve for 25 years. The reason his uniform may have been out of regulations, according to H. Bolden, is that his 77-year-old cousin suffers from dementia.

Veterans and service members online couldn’t seem to agree on whether or not Bolden was indeed a former Marine. One Internet sleuth could not find his name on Home of Heroes, a website that records the names of medal recipients. In the picture, Wesley Bolden is clearly wearing a Silver Star, but his name does not appear in searches on the Home of Heroes website. But, Home of Heroes clearly states on the front page, “Absence of a name for a Silver Star should NOT be considered evidence that someone did NOT get the Silver Star.”

Guardian of Valor, a website dedicated to rooting out civilian imposters, took it upon themselves to confirm that James Wesley Bolden is indeed a retired Marine. They received records from the Marine Corps that clearly show he did serve extensively, and even participated in combat in Vietnam. However, they were unable to verify whether or not Wesley Bolden had ever received the Bronze Star With Valor or Purple Heart.

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  • Rivrat1970

    Whoa. Of course there isn’t a Silver Star listed. The Marine is not wearing one in either picture. The medals’ suspences grouped together when reclined in the chair. There is aa optical illusion of colors which almost…ALMOST……but not quite resemble the Silver Star. Btw my dad’s Purple Heart and clusters aren’t listed either, but I’ve got the papers to prove them.

    • Tim

      You are spot on! No Silver Star in either picture. End of story. And yes, I did the research on my friend’s father, a USMC Gunny Vet from Korea & Vietnam era, BS w/V & PH (Korea – Punchbowl) – he is slipping into dementia also (78 years old). God love him, all he likes is to be called is “Gunny”, even from his kids. He’s proud of his service, would probably do the same thing this gent did. Those that would besmirch his honor would likely eat their teeth. ;) Cheers.

      • Tony

        He should sue the Home of heroes organization and news organizations for decimation of character. They jumped the gun and need to be taught a lesson. It’s only befitting to curb gossips and drama. I’m just saying.”

    • First of all, this report on this former marine, states “you can clearly see he is wearing a silver star”!! What a bunch of idiots!! He is wearing a broze star with valor, which is no way close to the rating of the silver star!! Get your facts straight before you and others try to report and take it upon your own half cocked knowledge of militarism! I seriously doubt, which was also proven, a 77 year old former marine with fairly common awards, especially for the Vietnam era, rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant, and his years of service would be faked! And lastly, from what he is wearing it is all in line with the regulations!! I have no idea what those “former” military were looking at but they need to go back to basic training, naming his medals wrong and stating they were out if order, which none were!! I guess it’s typical coming from former military with only had served probably 3-4 years at max!!

      There should be a reverse law of any one person attempting to discredit a proven former military person be liable for damages for slander, emotional distress, etc.

      I know if anyone attempted to question my past military service in the US Marines, US Army and US Air Force, I would sue the ass, amongst other things! And yes I said all three services, which I served all proudly for many years, and yes being a Marine First was my and will always be my proudest times of my life!

      Semper Fi

      • Jeff K

        25 years, 4 Marine, 21 Air Force. When I wear my blues to support Toy for Tots, people seem confused that a Cpl would have 6 hash marks and 3 MSMs. I tell them my story (in short form) and get left alone. I don’t get bugged very often. Being in the MCL makes things easier as well. Had to show both DD214s to join.
        “Trust but verify”
        Semper Fi Marine!

      • jim

        Glad you said it. These people should be liable for slander. And in all my life I’ve never seen a near 80 year old Vet treated so badly by the public. Thanks DevilDog, well said.

      • Mark Smelcer

        I also served proudly in 3 branches of which, first was our beloved Marine Corps., finishing with the Army, And the Navy in between. I am a Desert Storm veteran also.

    • Don39

      I see a Bronze Star with V as the highest decoration next to a Purple Heart, no problem there. I see nothing of a silver star .Thanks for your service Gunny. A fellow vet.

  • Torpedomtb

    Some young Marine should go help this old timer out and help fix his uniform in a positive way.

    • BobSit

      Retired Navy Corpsman and I’m pretty sure I would of helped him with his uniform when I was younger.

  • Chris

    Well, I bet he has a Retired Military ID in his wallet…. Bet it was used when he checked in for the flight….. Don’t know why he is wearing his uniform as a retiree. It is limited to certain events/occasions. But no matter, he wears it sharp! ….. God Bless you sir and thank you.

    • Mike

      Chris, just a heads up…. Veterans can wear uniforms for special occasions…. RETIREES can wear them anytime. Retirees are “on retainer,” actually :) :) Alot of folks aren’t aware of the vast difference between being a vet and being a retiree. There are many perks I get that are not avail to a non-retiree.

      YOU are absolutely correct with regard to helping our brother out, no matter whether he is in or out of uniform. More to the point, he should have been assisted in correcting his medal precedence….. No doubt about that :)

      • Chris

        I am a retiree. Please quote reg/para that allows a retiree to wear a uniform anytime, Thanks

      • Chris

        Retirees. Retired officers and enlisted personnel are entitled to wear the prescribed uniform of the grade held on the retired list when wear of the uniform is appropriate. Wearing a uniform is appropriate
        for memorial services, weddings, funerals, balls, patriotic or military parades, ceremonies in which any active or reserve United States military unit is participating, and meetings or functions of military associations.

        Retirees, residing or visiting in a foreign country, will not wear the uniform except when attending, by formal invitation, ceremonies or social functions at which wear of the uniform is required by the invitation or by the country’s regulations or customs.

        Retirees may wear appropriate uniform or civilian clothing when traveling as passengers aboard MSC ships and AMC aircraft.

        Retirees employed in any capacity by a military school, except the MCJROTC program, will not wear the uniform unless specifically authorized by the CMC. Requests for such authority should be addressed to the CMC (MCUB) and will contain a written statement from school officials indicating that the individuals or will be employed there, to include job title. When such authority is granted, personnel will wear uniforms prescribed for persons of corresponding grade on the active list. No school or other unauthorized insignia will be worn on the Marine Corps uniform.

        Retirees employed as instructors under the MCJROTC program will wear the Marine Corps uniform during school hours and at other appropriate times according to these regulations.

        The wearing of the uniform is prohibited under any of the following circumstances:

        (1) At any meeting or demonstration which is a function of, or sponsored by an organization, association, movement, group, or combination of persons which the Attorney General of the United States has designated, pursuant to E.O. 10450, as amended as totalitarian, fascist, communist, or subversive, or as having adopted a policy of advocating or approving the commission of acts of force or violence to deny others their right under The Constitution of the United States, or as seeking to alter the form of Government of the United States by unconstitutional means.

        (2) During or in connection with the furtherance of political activities, private employment or commercial interests, when an inference of official sponsorship for the activity or interest could be drawn.

        (3) Except when authorized by competent Service authority, when participating in activities such as public speeches, interviews, picket lines, marches, rallies or any public demonstration (including those pertaining to civil rights), which may imply Service sanction of the cause for which the demonstration or activity is conducted.

        (4) When wearing of the uniform would tend to bring discredit upon the Armed Forces.

        (5) When specifically prohibited by Marine Corps regulations.

        Veterans. Former members of the Marine Corps who served honorably during a declared or undeclared war and whose most recent service was terminated under honorable conditions (this means an honorable or general discharge) may wear the uniform in the highest grade held during such war service only upon the following occasions and in the course of travel incident thereto:

        (1) Military funerals, memorial services, weddings, and inaugurals.

        (2) Parades on national or state holidays; or other parades or ceremonies or a patriotic character in which any active or reserve United States military unit is taking part.

        Former Marines who are discharged honorably or under honorable conditions from the Marine Corps (even if it’s not during wartime service) may wear their uniform while going from the place of discharge to their home of record, within three months after discharge.

        Wearing of the uniform or any part thereof at any other time or for any purpose is prohibited.

        Medal of Honor Recipients. Personnel awarded the Medal of Honor may wear the Marine Corps uniform at their pleasure, except:

        (1) In connection with the furtherance of any political or commercial interests, or when engaged in off-duty civilian employment.

        (2) When participating in public speeches, interviews, picket lines, marches, rallies, or public demonstrations, except as authorized by competent authority.

        (3) When attending any meeting or event that is a function of, or is sponsored by, an extremist organization.

        (4) When wearing the uniform would bring discredit upon the Marine Corps.

        (5) When specifically prohibited by Marine Corps regulations.

        Note: Any individual wearing a US Military uniform is expected to reflect the high personal appearance standards and esprit de corps that the US Military in uniform represent. To this end, particular attention will be paid not only to the correct and military wear of uniform components, but also to the individual’s personal and physical appearance. All personnel exercising the privilege of wearing a US Military service or dress uniform will comply fully with their service’s grooming and weight control standards.

  • chris

    there to busy being butholes rather than helping a retired SNCO.

  • gunnygil

    Article or someone is still wrong since his hash marks show 28 years to 31 years service, not 25.

    • USMarine4

      The Master Gunny is showing 7 hash marks equal 28 minimum. Definitely more than 25. Possible 25 active with some Reserve time. Good eye Gunny.

    • Brad

      Of course, anyone getting an NJP (usually in their younger days) does not earn a hash mark and their 4-year clock toward their next service stripe starts over in the USMC.

      • Mike

        Incorrect, an njp does not nullify you from your hash mark wich represents four years of service. An NJP within that your next hash mark changes the color which indicates your honorable years without an NJP.

    • nonya

      6 stripes X 4 years per stripe = 24

  • FemaleVeteran!

    Why is he wearing his Cover Inside?? No GO!

    • rick

      also why is he in uniform at all.

      • Kenny

        Likely a funeral

    • Kenny

      In nam, the cover indoors wasn’t as big a deal

  • Dean

    THe marks show 24 Years considering it is three years per a hash mark

    • dean

      the ribbon above the supposed silver star is in fact the bronze star which is represented by the color of the ribbon

    • Kegler

      Each hash mark denotes four years of service, not three.

    • Robert Edwards

      Dean, I count seven hash marks. That means that he would have served over 28 years which might be if his cousin said he was in for 25 years–the cousin may have just been rounding things off. If he has dementia, I doubt that his uniform would really be as neat as it is unless it is early stage dementia. I have gone through dementia with my late wife. She could not even tie her shoes when her dementia really set in, yet this man like so many have commented is ready for inspection.
      The question I have is that I have always been told is that retirees can wear uniforms for special occasions, Veteran’s Day, Memorial Day and that is all. Large medals that he is wearing indicates that it may have been on one of those days.

      • USMarine4

        He is a veteran AND a retired Marine. Regs are different. See Chris’ post above for the regs as they apply to both retired and former Marines. Semper Fi to all of you!

    • Don

      He has 7 hash marks . Each hash Mark is 3 years thus it reflects 21 years service.

      • Top

        Sorry Don, hash marks denote 4 years of service. Good Cookies are awarded for 3 years of undetected crime.

      • Adrian

        Really? wow, I guess that is all you notice about a man that proudly served his country!

    • You have no idea if he served while I’m the reserves, after he retired, etc and as the whole article is incorrect on him, I’m sure the years are wrong too!! Get a grip!

    • Adrian

      It’s four years of service not three, if your not sure you might want to look it up.

      • Hohn Dierking

        what we have here is a failure to communicate. Are we talking doggie years or navy. Marine years> I do believe it is 3 for the Army and 4 for the Navy/MC

    • Your exactly correct, was three years when he served, the change to 4 year hash marks were implemented way after the Vietnam war.

      • “Correction”..

        Your not correct…

      • USMarine4

        Glad you made the correction. I earned my 1st hash mark on April 16 1968. The GC medal is for 3 years good conduct – got one of those too. Also had several Vietnam medals and ribbons. After that and college on the GI Bill then commissioned for a total of 27 years, no more hash marks or good conducts. Didn’t mind it one bit BUT from my own experience, the Master Gunny deserves our handshakes. He looks sharp in the uniform. Glad to see him still presenting himself as the Marine he is. Semper Fi.

      • And also if he had served while on reserve duty after retirement or had a early break in service, would easily add up.. Most likely the years of service is incorrect stated along with all the other allegations against him anyway!!

      • ghc

        USMC (& USN) service stripes (hashmarks in an Army term) denote 4 years service each and have been that way for a LONG time. Personally, as far back as 1969 when I enlisted. I did not actively research this specific point before this post, BUT traditionally way back1920’s – 1930’s) in the Corps it was “a stripe, a cruise”, meaning you got promoted on average every time you re-enlisted for a 4 year hitch.
        The MGySgt in question does show 28 years service on his sleeve.
        Additionally, even if he has some of his lower row of medals in the wrong order, the round silver medal can not be the Silver Star as (1) it is clearly not a star and (2) the color of the Silver Star Medal is mostly gold colored, the tiny silver star in the center being the only silver. Heck just Google it and look before you post.

      • Dale H Brown

        A hashmark showed 4 years of service when I was there –and that was during and after the Korean War–it might have changed but I never heard that it did.

    • EGA57

      Your hash mark calculation is ABSOLUTELY CORRECT. However, that is in Army years, not Marine years.

    • Wayde USMC Veteran

      Sorry to disagree but the hash marks are for every 4yrs of service

    • Brad

      I agree with below that service stripes or “hash marks” are for 4 years of service, however a possible reason for the discrepancy between the number of years he has served and the number of hash marks could have been an NJP. Many a young Devil Dogs sometimes receive NJP, and if this is the case then the 4 year clock starts over for earning the next hash mark.

      It is just another reason to note that before you assume someone is a faker or guilty of ‘stolen valor’ you had better make sure you are not accidentally accusing a veteran of being something he is not simply because of a mistake OR misunderstanding about their uniform.

      This Marine appears to have some minor discrepancies on his uniform – perhaps he put his cover on to pose for the photographer? But there is nothing with his uniform that screams “Faker” to me. Quite the contrary. Semper Fidelis.

      • KMF1031

        Wrong wrong wrong!

        Service Stripes indicate total number of years of service period! NJP does not alter one’s years of service. There is no consecutive 4 year clock to “start or stop” for awarding the Service stripe in the way you mention it. They simply represent the cumulative number of years served. Otherwise we could possibly have members serving 20 years or more with no service stripes on their uniform??? As long as they kept getting awarded “Office Hours” aka NJP by your description.

        What you’re thinking about is the Good Conduct Medal which is awarded for a consecutive period of time with no NJPs or Court Marshall being awarded to the member. The GCM has a start- stop date to mark each award period and thus one might have fewer GCMs than associated years of service.

    • Dave

      It was four years when I was in the Corps.

  • 671SOULJAH

    the old guy did his time now leave him the fuuuuug alone!!!! y’all ain’t nothin but a bunch of kitties

    • jim

      Souljah, Best one line comment in here! They are a bunch of lttle kitties! Why dont they help defend his honor? For crying out loud, he is a Vietnam Vet who is nearly 80 and most of you little kitties have no honor trashing him as he is!

      • Kris

        Amen 671SOULJAH and Jim.. Cripes sakes people GET A FREAKIN LIFE AND AND SHOW SOME DAMN RESPECT. smh.

  • Kate J Braxton

    I am a widower of a retired deceased veteran of 20 years and I know how much wearing the uniform to a soldier who is proud of serving. Some have worn the uniform and don’t have a clue as to it’s importance. As long as this Marine has served his country and now has dementia should be taken into consideration. His mind is probably where he was happiest. My heart crys to see how the internet public both civilian and military have reacted. Let this retire be happy and proud of his uniforma and country. I am proud of him for all he has endured for my country and my husband. He paved the way and took the racial intolerance so my husband didn’t have to.

    • Pamela James

      Amen Sister!

  • Apollodr

    Semper Fi. He’s a Maine and is Proud to serve. Case closed!

  • Raul

    That’s what happens when you jump in someone’s face for no reason you didn’t know nòthing about this man but you go online talking crap about him now you should apoligize to him he is a true hero and a Maine

  • Raul

    Sorry I ment to say marine but spell check sucks lol

  • Why is it always Marines! Never hear if Army, Navy or Air Force getting attention in the news for anything! Are they too low on the military totem pole? If this same guy had been wearing an Army uniform … Nothing would have been said!

    • Army Guy

      Oh please, Marines and their egos. Get on Guardian of Valor, there’s plenty of every service to go around. Usually it’s guys claiming to be SF and Rangers – both of which are considerably higher on the “military totem pole” than Marines (no disrespect intended).

      • Your absolutely delusional ! Both SF/Ranger are Army’s training there basic soldier into an elite fighting force, which all that have earned deserve! The Marine Corps training is far longer and exceeds the amount of training they go thru! This is why the USMC, is the only service that does not need to go through basic training when going into another service! All other services wanting to join the USMC, including former SF/Ranger, etc have to pass the USMC boot camp, regardless of prior service! And of all those that have passed that training, only about 1% get into the Force Recon, which is a true Teir 1 Asset!! As usual you sir are another one trying to cause problems every time a former marine makes a comment! Easy to see you just 100% jealous that you nvr earned that right to wear the EGA, and will never in your life be able to accomplish that, so you have no idea what it takes, nor what it means to be part of the Few and the Proud, the US Marines!!! Last note, all service members should be proud of there service to our nation, regardless what job title you held, cause I can tell you right now, I knew I cook that could kick the crap out of any SF/Ranger, Recon, or Seal ! He just chose his job because he liked to cook and now is running his own restaurant!

      • Ranger3bn

        Hey DevilDog87, your comments about the training and operational experience of Andy Rangers and the amount of time that is invested to become is actually incorrect. It is not uncommon for civilians and non military personnel to make the assumptions you just made however, I am perplexed as to why you would. Now, it could be that your were not in the same branch nor a member of the SOCOM community and this is the reason behind your statements.

        I would recommend your do some research on what is the difference between being ” Ranger qualified” and being an actual Ranger of the 75th regiment. If for whatever reason you cannot seems to find the needed information then hear is the skinny: just because you get the Ranger “tab” you are Not considered as a Ranger. It is only when you serve in the 75th Ranger Regiment in 1 of the 3 battalions or the RTB are you consider a “Ranger” the amount of time and training it takes far exceeds that of a Marine.

      • USMC83-87

        Everyone knows MacAuther was Pullers bitch…lol

    • HSanders USN Ret.

      Because Marines are particularly sensitive to stolen valor and demand more of each other to display themselves properly. Unfortunately most other service members tend to ‘Let someone else do the confrontation.’ But they are joiners once a possible stolen valor subject is singled out. I agree all current and prior service members should take it upon themselves to confront a possible stolen valor impersonator. But in such a way as to confirm or refute, not to condemn and accuse without proper research. Honor those who have freely given of themselves.

    • Carl

      That’s not true. There have been cases of some identifying themselves as former SF (Green Berets).

  • J.R. Lucas USMC

    Semper Fi Brother. You wear your Blues sharply and your DI would be smiling. Take care from one old Marine Retiree to another old Marine Gretiree.

    • CalBM1

      I think a DI would call this man Sir !

    • guest

      If this guy had been wearing an Army uniform, THEN he would have been wrong….after all, he was in the Marines.

  • santos, rat

    The comments about Marine Sargent Bolden, should not have been judged or discriminated of him wearing his uniform, I am a Nam Vet (11B10) and Army Retiree, which I am proud to wear my uniform.
    Anyone seeing a fellow comrade, despite branch of service they are in, each individual should have approach the soldier to the side and address the error. Yes, there has been a lot of imitators floating among civilian population, wearing the uniforms. Whenever I am traveling I do make corrections on myself before I appear on any public places, especially the airports. I have a full of audiences just staring at my direction, some simle, nod their heads or a few would approach me, and said “THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE, and ‘”GOD BLESS YOU AN YOUR FAMILY”.
    So please keep your comments to yourself, think of your freedom that past and present soldiers defending this beautiful country of ours. You all have a nice and safe wonderful day.

  • retired AMT1

    Why is he wearing a hat indoors?

    • Adrian

      Does it really matter?, The guy is suffering from dementia, what else would you really expect from him? at least he has the balls and courage to proudly wear his old uniform.

      • USMarine4

        It appears that he is posing for a photo. As such, wearing his cover (hat to non-Marine/Navy folks and civilians) is appropriate. USMC-Retired

      • GBArnold, USCG Vet

        Hoooah!! Anytime a retired Master Gunnery Sgt wants to dress for an occasion, more power to him.

  • Stan, USN Ret

    The guy is a confirmed United States Marine, retired! Cut the sniping! Instead, go after the aholes who continue to try to denigrate him even tho it’s proven he’s legit. Jeez….

    • Roger, USAF Retired

      Amen!!!

  • Cholo McFlurry

    He was and always will be a Marine, honestly he earned it, is proud of it, and leave him alone. BFD he finally gets his due recognition and it takes a REMF to knock that down.

  • D. Stutesman

    Are man bags now authorized with dress blues??? Make sure you’re squared away if you’re going to wear the uniform you earned.

    • You are an idiot, number 1 he’s retired and not active, and as a retiring he can wear that uniform anytime he wants and no he doesn’t need to have it looking like he’s waiting for a review by the Commanding General, get a life, I doubt you can even fit in your uniform, if you ever wore one as this former Marine is doing!

      • John D

        hey jarhead! I was never a Marine, just a corpsman attached. Did 3 years with Navy and the rest was FMF. after relocating after retiring THIS time, I just dug out my bootcamp dress blues, size 28 waist and 38 , Yes, that WAS a long time ago! I was 27 waist and 38chest when married my wife, and she insists I am twice the man I was then, almost to the pound! If I had weighed 4 pounds less, Navy would not have taken me. I did time with grunts, tanks, ANGLICO getting commissioned. It was a good career move, but I never really had an fun after that. Thanks for bringing up some old memories!

    • Leilani

      He does have dementia so he should be excused if he has forgotten a few details in presentation.

    • G. Vassilious

      It’s not a “man bag” stupid its a nylon breifcase – and yes he would be authorized to carry orders, payroll docs. and other materials necessary to travel if on active dutand certainly retired. If you know so much about “man bags” I challenge you to walk up to the next USMC field grade officer (know what that means?) or general and ask why he’s carry that “man bag” briefcase because he isn’t authorized a “man bag” and after asking the question please wait around for the answer.

      Former USAF “man bag” carrier.

  • G.I.JO

    All you frikkin hater’s out there need to get a life… None of you have done ONE DAY in this mans boots during his time of service especially as a Marine during one of our country’s most difficult era’s nationally and internationally. It was not easy being a black american serving for a country that doesn’t respect you personally while you served professionally so that others can live free and in security of ones personal sacrifice. You ought to being saluting him, fighting for the benefits he’s earned thru the VA and ensuring that he has a place to go to get his dementia treated. Just think what we can all have here if we harness all this “HATE” and direct it toward something productive and positive; all of us would be in a better place…

    • Dick Collis

      G.I. Joe
      Well said. Some people on here need to quite wagging their tongues so much and just be more understanding of his dementia and give him praise for having served.
      Semper Fi

      • ChiefRon

        Agree leave this man alone.

  • Charles Gallagher

    For those of us who do not care about what Ribbons/Awards we receive, it is what we do and not what we get that matters. We sometimes put these thing in the wrong order. So leave this proud Marine alone.

  • Sgt Elizabeth Hardy

    He did his time and then some and is a proud retiree wearing the uniform according to Regs back in the day or according to whst he can recall…If my uniform fit me I would still wear it..putting on that uniform brings you back to the pride it instilled in you whileserving your country…Lets not forget Marine’s have to earn the honor to wear that uniform…wearing any military uniform gives you confidence , lets you know people still care and are greatful for your service, and lets other peopke ie: civilians know you are still serving your country even though you are a retiree and Veteran …also thst you earned all those medals you are wearing!!! SEMPER Fi

  • You know I don’t understand everybody just picks on everyone just quit, my god enjoy life for what god has to offer us, life is to short for all this crap, we’ve all served our proud country in some way so come on be nice to one another so the proud marine is a little off, there’s more important things in life to be more worried about lets all enjoy ourselves while we have the opportunity to do so enjoy each others life’s as it was meant to be, everyone is so snippy anymore, god people please have control over yourselves, let’s be happy that god gave us life it’s to short to be unhappy, we all will be together as one I when it is our time thank to everyone who has served this proud nation, we salute u, I know I’m proud of myself for what I have done. Even though I never got injured in the line of duty like the wounded coming home right now, I am nothing compared to them they made the ultimate sacrifice, I just served and darn proud of it, so god help me if I snicker to much but hats off to everyone out there god please enjoy and embrace life to the fullest life is just to dam short. Thank u for reading my story. I appreciate your patience with this old timer.

  • bbabbitt

    As a veteran, I cannot understand why a 77 year-old Marine is wandering around in uniform. I took mine off in 1967 and have no idea where it is today. I do know I could never fit into it. The next time I will wear the uniform is when I am buried in a National Cemetary. At that I hope someone can remember how my medals go on it. I know I can’t remember the right order.

    • Sarge

      I’m 71 and have been retired since 1983. I keep my medals and uniform all set up so when it’s time, they are ready. I couldn’t tell you the proper order of the medals without looking them up but I’m sure mine are right. I can still fit in my uniform but don’t go around wearing it. Only one more time……..

    • Kenny

      what about if it isn’t your funeral, but one of your brothers in arms funeral?

  • Karen Lockhart

    klock
    What if it was a civilian with dementia wandering around in an airport? They would probably be treated better than a veteran. But why was he by himself? Where is his family?

    • Kenny

      If he survived nam and spent that long in the marines, even with dementia he may function quite alright on his own, just cause someone got their awards in the wrong order doesn’t mean he needs his family to escort him everywhere. I would assume he is enroute to the grave or funeral of someone he served alongside of

  • artymgysgt

    The ol’timer doesn’t look bad even if there are discrepancies in his uniform. I’d bet that he also is not wearing regulation underwear (scivies) with proper name stamp.

  • Marine AV8R

    I probably should leave well enough alone, but it pains me to see a fellow Marine being vilified under any circumstances, but especially without cause. The standing photo of Master Gunnery Sergeant Bolden provides enouh clarity to conclude that his medals (except the PH) are too reflective to identify (likely anodized), but the top row suspension ribbons can be identified as the Bronze Star “V”, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal and Good Conduct Medal w/ multiple award device.. They are all in the proper order of precedence. There appears to be some photo blemish or strange device on the NAM. Only the Vietnam Campaign Medal can be identified on the second row and it is appropriately last. In short, comments in the article about misordered or unearned medals based solely on the photo seem to be quite unfounded and inappropriate.

  • AnyTran

    Wow, excellent job keeping in shape to put on your uniform like this, you look sharp, MGySg. At 77, you can do this, your last inspection was years ago. Thank you for your service!

  • Brad

    A lot of people really jumped the gun on this. I think in both photos it is easy to see that the senior medal the Marine is wearing is a Bronze Star with “V” device – the ribbon/coloring for the Bronze Star and Silver Star are very different. Seems to me like some people really jumped the gun here as a result of their own ignorance and have a lot of apologizing to do. However, the wearing of the pistol expert badge on the wearer’s right side is a no-no when wearing medals. I cannot tell for sure what the larger ‘medallion’ hanging below the pistol badge is? As for wearing his medals in the wrong order – with regard to the top row at least – they are in the correct order – they are the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. I cannot make out the bottom row medals so well, but there appears to be at least one medal for service in Vietnam. The minor mistakes are easily attributable to dementia. And for those that question why the Marine was wearing his uniform – USMC uniform regulations allow retirees to wear their uniforms in a wide range of circumstances if the uniform and appearance standards are met. Wearing of the Dress Blue ‘A’ uniform is less common, but not unheard of.

    • Sarge

      The larger medallion below the pistol badge appears to be a Drill Sgt badge. If that’s the case, it’s worn in the right place.

  • AnyTran

    … 0op, forgot to thank Mr. DeAngelo Williams. Thank you for doing the right thing, Sir!

    • Coastie Karl

      Agree!

  • I know there are alot of posers out there, but some of the wanna be cyber sluths out there need to realize, not everything you read on the internet is true. stop embarrassing true vets.

  • Billy

    Point is he is old and what he says he is and anyone that said other wise should give personal apologies

  • recon1077

    I am a 49 year old Marine. I served from 1983 to 1991 when I was medically retired. My memory is so bad that I do not remember the order of the ribbons and medals. I have been diagnosed with TBI. I hope no one gets in my face because my medals are not in order. I earned my purple heart.

  • TrimbeyUSMC

    You know its sad first everyone condemns him for being a fack. Now you all just care about a cover indoors. He is 77. Let’s be happy he is still alive after what he has gone through in his service.

  • Matt Bailey

    Once a Marine, ALWAYS A MARINE! Semper FI!

  • Army

    The man Served.
    The man earned.
    And a very humble Thank you, Sir, for your courage, and your honor!!

  • Doc “Moriconi”

    I myself Served as a Corpsman with 2/2 many years ago got out in 1972…………..I Just wish I could fit in my old Uniform still LOL……………Anyway I am so proud of all those Marines and Sailors I served with……I see these type things on the internet and remember the days we were s told it would be best and safer to not wear the Uniform on leave and to many places because of the way so many of us were treated back in those days…… Sure glad our Military no longer have to go through that…….. enough said……Semper Fi…………….

  • Coastie Karl

    Gunny Bolden has dementia and he served his country with honor. BFD if his medals are out of
    sequence or he has one too many hash marks. Get a life of your own and let the man live his.

  • Niusulu T Tautua

    Squad bay Attention! Get in line right now and I want all soup coolers to shut up. You all have a point but now that he is confirmed as a former marine, all must pipe down and carry on! MGySgt? Right now, I need a marine who lives or station close enough to this MGySgt to get there and get this fellow Marine squared away, have I made myself clear? Good, then.. Carry On Marines!

  • Lee

    Why is he wearing dress blues with medals in the first place as that’s not authorized except for ceremonial occasions ? Marines wearing dress blues will wear ribbons and badges when on normal liberty … Next question why is he not displaying his ribbons that don’t rate medals opposite of his medals as Marines wearing medals are required … Dementia or not if he was sound enough in mind to wear all that he would have remembered those simply rules

    • Kris

      Shut the hell up Lee. Good Lord.

  • Richardson

    May GOD continue to bless you(GUNNY).
    From a retired Vet.

  • Charlie Hester

    There was a time in OUR country that a service member had to be in Full Dress Uniform to even leave the Installation AND we were REQUIRED TO BE IN FULL DRESS UNIFORM WHEN WE FLEW ON CIVILIAN AIRCRAFT! SOME HABITS ARE HARD TO BREAK AFTER 25 YEARS! GOD BLESS YOU, SENIOR NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER! I SALUTE YOU! HIS MEDALS MIGHT BE OUT OF PLACE DUE TO THE FACT THAT SO MANY NEW MEDALS HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED BECAUSE OF THE LITTLE GIRLY BOYS THAT DIDN’T EARN A REAL MEDAL. SEMPRE FI, BROTHER!

  • Michael Fousek

    I am a retired E-8 with 24 years of service. I have to look at the book every time to place my ribbons on my Uniform. I still have people tell me that some is out of place I carry the book just to show I am right I served in Nam & Korea and all places of action between 1968 t0 1993. I was in several units that earned foreign ribbons People still tell I have on right to wear them. This causes a lot o problems even When I was on activ

  • R. Guy Slater

    I’m a retired soldier. Not a Marine. The Longevity stripes worn by service members denote a length of time in service as designated by the service. In the Army, each “hash mark” denotes 3 years of service. I have been told that in the Marine Corps, each “hash mark’ denotes 4 years of service. Also told that in the Navy it is the same, but…the color of the stripes and the hash marks denote something also. If they are gold, then the wearer has also served with good conduct and been awarded the Navy equivalent of the Army Good Conduct Medal. If the stripes are red, it means that at some time during the service of the wearer, he/she was not awarded the Good Conduct Medal equivalent. Those gold stripes are forever, and one screw up costs them forever, so I have been told. Anyone, PLEASE correct me if I am wrong. Thanks

  • Tommy

    It is none of your business why he is wearing his uniform at the Airport he is 100% authorized to do so.
    Chapter 11 MCO P1020.3G
    Retiree/Reservist Wear of Uniforms. As a Retiree you may wear the uniform for basically any event that you wore the uniform while on active duty.
    As a former Marine there are some restrictions: You must have served during a time of war (i.e. earned the National Defense Medal during your time in service) and received an honorable discharge to wear the uniform.
    Events you are restricted to wearing it to: Military funerals, memorial services, weddings, and inaugurals.
    Parades on national or state holidays; or other parades or ceremonies of a patriotic character in which any active or reserve United States military unit are taking part.
    ‘Wearing of the uniform or any part thereof at any other time or for any purpose is prohibited.’