Sam Stavisky’s dream came true
By Jack T. Paxton, Executive Director
For photos of the event click here
There have been many highlights in this organization’s long and glorious history dating back to the late 1940s but none would match that associated with the dedication of the Brig. Gen. Robert L. Denig Sr. Memorial at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, Quantico, Va., on November 17.
With more than 70 members, friends, and relatives of two of the original “Denig Demons” looking on, the Memorial was officially unveiled by Mrs. Bernice Stavisky, Mrs. Maria O’Leary, and Brig. Gen. Paul A. Kennedy, Director of Public Affairs, and Bill Hauptfleisch, President of the USMCCCA.
Bernice, wife of Sam Stavisky, said at the unveiling, “This was Sam’s dream. He loved this Association and loved being a Marine…”
Bernice and Maria are the only two surviving wives of Denig’s Demons and, if you went by the smiles (and some tears) each was thrilled to be included in the festivities. Bernice said, following the unveiling, “This was Sam’s dream. He loved this Association and loved being a Marine in World War II although it took a waiver from the Commandant of the Marine Corps for him to serve…”Fred Lash, past USMCCCA President, read a letter that Sam wrote to him just prior to his death requesting that the Association do everything it could to honor Brig. Gen. Denig and the concept of the combat correspondent program which started in 1942 and continues today. The Denig Memorial is the only edifice of its kind at the Museum that recognizes Marines serving in the 4300 and 4600 occupational fields.
The program began inside Semper Fidelis Chapel with President Bill Hauptfleisch welcoming everyone and introducing special guests. He then introduced Chaplain (Commander, CHC, USN) William D. Stallard for the invocation. Bill then turned the program over to Brig. Gen. Paul A. Kennedy, Director of Public Affairs, HQMC.In his comments, General Kennedy reminded the audience that what General Denig started in 1942 continues today. “Today’s Marines recognize those who came before them and are definitely aware of the legacy they have inherited.” He assured the audience that they, too, are continuing to tell the Marine Corps “story” to the American public.
The assemblage was then invited to adjourn to the nearby Denig Memorial for the actual unveiling. Very appropriately the Memorial had been covered with a pair of shelter halves, symbolic of what Marines have used since those early days of World War II.
Following the unveiling and the comments by Bernice Stavisky and Fred Lash, a Marine bugler sounded Taps, honoring all of those who have given their lives telling the Marine Corps story.
The dedication was followed by a no-host luncheon at the nearby Globe and Laurel Restaurant.
What made the day special to this writer was the homecoming aspect of the dedication. Members from as far away as Costa Rica and California journeyed to Quantico to join their “brotherhood” for the dedication. Frank and Karen Walker, both former Marines, now live in Costa Rica and decided to combine the dedication with a family get-to-gather. Brig. Gen. Denig’s grandson, Bob Denig and his son, Nate, came in from California while Bob’s sister, Alston Johnson and her husband, Bruce drove from Richmond, VA. Various family members of the Staviskys and the O’Learys attended. Association Secretary Chris Whiting and her mother from New York state were on hand as were Mike Rhea and his wife from Delaware. Red and Ann Carpenter drove up from Florida as did Kate Stark, USMCCCA national vice-president and webmaster. Liz Mrdutt and daughter, Carol also came in from California, as did new association Treasurer Rick Laver.
Norm Hatch, our venerable cinematographer who captured Marine fighting on Tarawa and Iwo Jima and now in his 90s, was on hand. Norm was the only person present who actually served with Brig. Gen. Denig at HQMC prior to the General’s retirement.
From the newer breed came recently retired Col. Bryan Salas, Director of Public Affairs, now plying his trade as President and CEO of The Closest Wolf Communications, in nearby Ashburn, VA. Jenny Holbert took time out from her new position as “CEO” of Lavender Heights – her new bed and breakfast venture that is drawing raves in Fredericksburg, VA and issued a “c’mon down” to all. Active duty (and CC Life Member) Lt. Col. Neal Murphy and his family made it. Murph is the new Media Officer at DivPA, HQMC. MGySgt. Phil Mehringer (also a Life Member) and his wife, Dee Dee, drove in from Camp Lejeune. Phil recently returned from his Afghanistan tour.
A few stats: The Memorial came about as result of a vote taken at the New Orleans Conference. The committee formed to shepherd the memorial into existence was composed of Walt Ford, Sally Pritchett, Bill Hauptfleisch and Fred Lash. This would become the largest fundraising event by our newly-rejuvenated Foundation. The memorial, created by Kline Memorials, Manassas, VA, cost $26,800, which includes $1,000 for permanent maintenance by the Museum. 78 engraved bricks surround the Memorial and were donated by members and friends. Each cost $300. The entire project totaled slightly over $43,000. As announced at the dedication, any future contributions will be used to endow the newly-named Brig. Gen. Robert L. Denig Sr. Scholarship Fund for Communications Studies.
(For those who journey to the Museum to see the Memorial. If you stand facing the Chapel entrance, turn to your right and proceed down the pathway toward Puller Point, then down the path to our Memorial.)