BY DAMMIT, WE'RE MARINES!
Veterans' Stories of Heroism, Horror, and Humor in World War II on the Pacific Front
By Gail Chatfield
Embedded Files
By Dammit, We’re Marines! preserves the voices of 52 veterans who fought in some of the fiercest battles in the Pacific, particularly Iwo Jima. Drawn from personal interviews, their stories reveal not only the hardships of combat but also the humor, resilience, and humanity that defined the Greatest Generation.
These men speak candidly about why they enlisted, what they endured on the front lines, and how those experiences shaped the rest of their lives. Their accounts are more than battlefield recollections—they are windows into the 1940s, capturing the language, values, and perspectives of a generation that endured war and returned home to rebuild America.
Part oral history, part tribute, this collection is both deeply personal and historically significant. It offers today’s readers an unforgettable connection to the men who defeated the powerful Japanese army and defined what it means to be a Marine.
Experience the Stories
The voices of these Marines come alive not only in words but also in images and moments that capture their legacy. This short presentation highlights select quotes, photos, and memories from By Dammit, We’re Marines! — offering a glimpse into the courage and sacrifice of those who fought in the Pacific.
About the Author
Gail Chatfield is an award-winning journalist, author, researcher, and co-founder of the Veterans Writing Group in San Diego. She has dedicated years to collecting and preserving veterans’ stories so their voices continue to educate and inspire future generations. Chatfield's work has appeared in Leatherneck Magazine, The Veterans' Voice, and the North County Times, among others. She is a member of the Military Writers' Society of America, the Third Marine Division Association, the Iwo Jima Association of America, and has served for years on the board of the Iwo Jima Commemorative Committee in San Diego.
Contact / Connect
Thank you for visiting and for keeping the memory of these Marines alive. I welcome questions, speaking invitations, or opportunities to share more about this project. Please reach out — I’d be honored to hear from you.
Email: gchatsan@gmail.com
I would like to give a lot of credit to the 240 Marines of C Company, 1st Battalion, 24th Marines, 4th Division who landed on Iwo Jima on D-Day. Only 31 of us survived. Half of us were the walking wounded so the other half were pretty lucky. Sgt. Major Mike D. Mervosh USMC (Ret.)
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse