Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Posted: Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:00 AM by Allison Linn

When we recently attended a screening of the “Sex and the City” movie, we expected having to sit through the requisite commercials before the main feature. Especially for a film so product-placement-fashion-spread heavy. We did not, however, expect an ad for the U.S. Marine Corps.

That fact gets to the heart of what is right and wrong with “America’s Marines,” currently running in movie theaters and on television. The commercial features U.S. Marines in dress uniform performing a complex rifle drill in some of America’s most beloved and beautiful places: against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, amid the bright lights of New York City, at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge and, most strikingly, along the edge of the Grand Canyon.

The lush music, deep-voiced announcer and stunning cinematography make it a natural fit for the big screen. In fact, it’s hard to appreciate the commercial if you don’t see it on a movie-sized screen, and it’s so eye-catching that you can enjoy it even if you are the target demographic for a movie about thirty- and fortysomethings living in New York City rather than twentysomethings considering a career in the military.

Staff Sergeant Brian J. Griffin / U.S. Marines

But even the “Sex and the City” women would (begrudgingly) admit that looks aren’t everything, and one has to wonder whether the commercial, which likely cost a fair bit of money and took an enormous amount of logistical planning, will actually get people to join the Marines.

The stereotypical military ad focuses on the adrenaline rush of serving your country -- the allure of physical feats of greatness and the sheer power of using advanced fighting machinery -- or tout benefits such as opportunities and education. Those approaches allow the military to accentuate the upsides of service while also acknowledging a sobering truth: this is a country that has been involved in a major, complex conflict for five years, and joining up these days is very literally an agreement to risk your life for your country.

“America’s Marines,” is lovely, but its beauty risks being disingenuous. Certainly there are people who will join the Marines because they love this country, and the ad reminds us of how much there is to love about this country. But these days it takes more than patriotism to agree to serve -- it also takes the guts to know that you will likely be facing a messy battlefield. Anyone who is seriously considering joining the Marines has likely given that a fair amount of thought.

The past few years have generated in us all an enormous amount of respect for the troops, and we certainly mean no disrespect here. One simply wonders whether those who choose to make that sacrifice would feel turned off, or even pandered to, by the contradiction between what this commercial presents, and what reality has to offer.

Click here to watch the ad online.

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Comments

You are so wrong. The Marines sell a feeling about one's self and this ad captures it completely. Some 30 years ago, when I was in the Marines, I saw a new ad they were preparing. It was a drawing of someone who looked like John Wayne...in his 40's. I commented that it was teenagers we were seeking and that didn't look like any teenager. I was told "no, it did not, but that is what the teenager thought he would look like after he joined the Marines." The Corps goes after those who love their country, feel as if they are the ones who can save it, and, also have a feeling of being "different." I think this ad captures all of that without saying a word.

Jerry Shelton (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 8:42 AM)

you have got to be kidding me. You haver no grasp of what serving in the Corps is all about. It is in knowing that you represent the finest this country has to offer, not just in patriotism, but in knowing that when faced with some of life's ultimate challenge, you can perservere. I have seen the commercial on a number of occasions and always get a sense of extreme pride of all who serve our country. If you have not done so, you have no idea of the commitement it takes to do so. if you have served, then you have forgotten the sense of pride and accomplishment of a mission, either in peace time or in war.

Steven Mills, Shawnee, Ok (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 8:46 AM)

I guess I do not understand what you wanted in the ad. Did you want the ad to show a marine sneaking up behind someone and slitting their throat, or would you have preferred to see a marine cutting someone in half with gunfire? They go to war. What do you expect? You liberals never cease to amaze me with your comments. Do you see a problem with a tire commercial that is all about sexy models rolling around on bed sheets or a shampoo that brings a women to her height of happiness. . . it's a nice ad that shows our marines in a very respectable way. I question your motive and wonder if you enjoy the freedom that they provide you.

Clark Snyder, Dayton, Ohio (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 8:51 AM)

TO THE WRITER OF THIS ARTICLE:

YOU HAVE OBVIOUSLY MISSED THE MESSAGE. I SERVED IN MY BELOVED MARINE CORPS FOR EIGHT YEARS. I WAS STATIONED IN NEW YORK (MY HOMETOWN) IN SEPT 2001. THE MESSAGE IS CLEAR: WE SERVE TO PROTECT EVERYTHING THAT THE UNITED STATES HOLDS DEAR.

THAT IS NOT A CONTRADICTION. BUT YOUR FREEDOM OF SPEECH IS WHAT WE--THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS--PROTECT.

CYNTHIA, T., VA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 8:52 AM)

I guess you really have to be a Marine to understand the USMC. Everyone else's opinion is still, quite frankly, second-hand. Unless of course you're the enemy.

Semper Fidelis

sue m, dumfries, va (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 9:07 AM)

Allison Linn you are an idiot. Those who choose to join the military (especially the Marines) already know they must face combat. We don't have to remind them of this. Patriotism isn't worrying about combat and death, it goes above that. The men and women who view this commercial as a patriotic opportunity already understand what the message is. Maybe you should watch it again...and pay attention this time. Semper Fidelis

John S, Huntsville AL (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 9:19 AM)

To the writer,

Having spent the past three years recruiting for the past three years I would have to strongly disagree with you. The Young Men and Women today are not only very patriotic but are courageous for choosing to serve their country. The Marine Corps represents everything this country was founded on. America's Marines shows the heart of the Marine Corps " Honor, Courage, Commitment." This is not a punch line or slogan but our way of life. I hope that more people fully understand what it means to serve this great country whether in the Marine Corps or another branch of service.

John W., Jacksonville, NC (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 9:23 AM)

Pandered to? Turned off? The commercial presents EXACTLY what we fight for - the varied backgrounds - the beauty of this country - and the right for those who want to enjoy it in peace. That's why noble warriors make the ultimate sacrifice by putting their life on the line for people like you and me, and for the right of martini sipping, Jimmy Choo wearing Sex and the City fans to enjoy a movie without fear of getting blown up. I am a fan of SITC, but a bigger fan of the Marines...I am glad that they remind the thirty and forty somethings that twenty somethings make huge life decisions to protect ours.

Michael , Scottsdale,AZ (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 9:25 AM)

You obviously have never served. The pride that every Marine feels is what the commercial is all about. The reality that you allude to is what separates the USMC from the rest of the world. We know going in that we will be the first to fight and are proud of that distinction. The silent drill team represents the dedication and pursuit of perfection that is the Marine Corps. Semper Fi

Matt McElroy (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 9:30 AM)

Wow - you had to dig pretty deep to find a way to criticize an institution that offers young men and women both honorable purposes and incredible challenges, while they defend your freedom to attend a movie which celebrates a decadent lifestyle. While you were eating popcorn, Marines were choking back 110-degree heat and sandstorms and keeping their heads on a swivel to avoid the next attack.

Put on a flak jacket, do some field reporting, and see if you don't discover that our young Marines are simply exceptional. Don't underestimate the appeal of that dress blue uniform. They may be the roughest men (and women) in our service, but they are also the best dressed, and most of "the look" comes from within.

Marine Pride = Honor, Courage, and Commitment since 10 November 1775. Get a clue.

ProudMarine Dad, Northern Virginia (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 9:34 AM)

Guess what... It's a commercial. Almost all commercials are not presented in a "realistic" format. It's merely a tool reminding you that we Marines are still in existence; and a more positive tool than the evening news with it's on going "death toll" every night. OohRah & SemperFi Devil Dogs!!!

Bill Robins, Cedar Hill, TX (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 9:41 AM)

Allison,
Maybe it's not about recruitment, maybe it's about respect. You sit there in your cushy little theatre seat and make comments in a faceless blog while good men and women stand the watch. They have pride in their country and in their Corps. Let them show it, let them show people that they are protected and while you are at it, why not allow people to feel protected. Why would you comment in a negative way about such a powerful, moving film clip? Sometimes you have to realize that you might not be as smart or as interesting as you think you are. Enjoy the luxury of being able to sit back and dig your hand into your buttered popcorn, some of us would love to be beside you but we have important work to do.
Marines

Johnny comemarching home (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 9:42 AM)

As a 9 year USMC vet I will tell you, the Marines don't need to make a big flashy video showing machinery and stuff blowing up. They make videos of personal struggle to accomplisha goal and join an elite force. They make videos sparking patriotism within like this video does. There is nothing more awe inspiring then seeing the Silent Drill team in action. So next time, think before you try and compare the Marines to the other branches of service, they are different and that's the way they want it.

Here's an old story that's true in so many ways:
-an Army recruiter speaks to students in a high school gym telling them all about the Army, technical training, school benefits, etc. Everything they can do to earn all this while serving.

-The Marine recruiter gets on stage in his Dress Blues and tells the crowd, It's hard, Difficult, and we promise you nothing. If you want to earn the chance to wear this uniform and the title Marine, come see me in the back of the room.

who do you think had the better responce? it wasn't the Army.

Marines appeal to a different American, those that want to be the best, not just another face in the crowd.

Eric LaCourse, Vermilion, Ohio (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 9:43 AM)

What you're seeing the the Marine Corp Silent Drill Team.

What I'm reading is "The typical (but not all inclusive) viewer of Sex and the City is way to shallow and self absorbed to realize what they might have gotten themselves into if they were to enlist." Come strolling in dressed like Carrie, sporting Jimmy Chou's and swilling a Cosmo and you'll be in for a life changing experience.

I, for one, am more disappointed that the Marine's would waste my tax dollars with that audience.

Chris Lester (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 9:54 AM)

A well-written piece, but I would disagree on the main argument. There is no contradiction betweeen what this commercial represents, and what reality has to offer. As a four-year USMC veteran, the reality is that, after the drudgery of continuous weapon, vehicle and comm-gear PM, drilling, PT, and the dangers of foot patrols, artillery strikes, and conflict, there will eventually be a shower and a bar of soap for the lucky still standing. Every Marine is issued a set of dress blues. The dichotomy which exists between the grime of daily work and the spit-and-polish of the Marine Corps Dress Blues, a uniform I was proud to wear at my brother's funeral at Arlington in 2006 (SFC, Cav Trooper-US ARMY), is the reality. All uniformed service members, to include policemen, firemen, and every military service member, realize the threat to their very existence when they sign on the dotted line, or at least they should. They should also understand that these uniforms get dirty, and there is often no way around it. While I personally disagree with many of the questionable motives of our political leaders, I don't feel that a 'shiny' ad such as 'America's Marines' is a slick attempt to sugar-coat the truth. It was a similar ad which attracted me to the Marines in 1987, but I nonetheless understood that I was enlisting in the Marine Corps, and not a local Boy Scout Troop. 'Fideli Certa Merces'

Cpl. Stuey, Ocean City, MD (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 10:00 AM)

I am concerned why you think this ad is so weird. The U.S. Marines, as well as other branches, do recruit older individuals to join the military especially those who are in specialized fields. I thought the ad was very beautiful and demonstrates an amazing talent of the rifle team. Also, even though Sex and the City is about 30 and 40 year olds living in New York, the demographic who watched and followed the series was much younger.

Cynthia, West Chester, PA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 10:05 AM)

"this is a country that has been involved in a major, complex conflict for five years,..."

Try 17 years ma'am...please don't put "five years" in print (or electrons)...the next thing you know everyone is forgetting the US armed forces have been in sustained conflict since 1991 (actually your historical faux pas is evidence of our short memories).

Must be the source of my history professor's axiom..."those who ignore history are destined to repeat it..."

Jason (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 10:06 AM)

As a former Decorated Marine of the Viet-Nam era it gives me great pride to see our service men and woman held in such high esteem....those are the Marines of the 8th & I barracks in Washington DC...the add is single most effective statment that can be said of what is means to " be a Marine " Our Marine today make me very proud. Well done !

Richard Tyrrell, Philadelhia, PA. (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 10:20 AM)

This commercial is not about the glory of combat or the sexiness of using the newest weaponry. It's about the pride of being one of the few who can claim the title of United States Marine. It's about the dedication that it takes to be at the pinnacle of service to our great country. The Marines have the ability to be selective. They want those who want to be Marines, not those who just want to play with the newest toys. I guess my opinion is a little skewed, I'm a Captain in the USMCR with two tours of duty over-seas. Semper Fi!!

Tom, Eatontown, NJ (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 10:24 AM)

The Marines cannot cinemagraph reality, because the American people would not stand for it - Johnny learning to kill. I served in the Corps for eight years and trust me, they do a pretty good job of weeding out the uncommitted. You are right, it takes certain breed of citizen to serve and sacrifice for the cause of freedom. The Marines are just that Breed!

Chris McLain (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 10:32 AM)

Please when you lay down your head at night remember that part of your peace of mind is supplied by those Marines. The Marines are the elite of all the Corps and it might do you some good to read some of their history. In terrible situations they are the first called. My son and my brother were both marines. They have pride in themselves and pride in the country. That commerical tells you what they protect and who and what they are. I, for one are both proud and thankful. Semper Fi

Debbie Washougal, wa (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 10:51 AM)

As a former Marine Officer, I've seen the ad and feel it is right on. Semper Fi!

Mark Nynka, Succasunna, NJ (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 10:55 AM)

The commercial emphasizes the allure of what a Marine is and that in fact they are something special. To me this commercial brings about how the Marine Corps is as much a part of the country as the beautiful settings in each of the locations. Being a United States Marine is as much about the image it portrays as it is about being a tough young man or woman willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice. It is simple, inspiring and above all intimidating.

Now, is Sex and the City the proper venue… can’t say, but my guess would be no.

Scott, Raleigh, NC (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:00 AM)

As a parent of a recently "minted" Marine - a son who chose to serve - I am proud of the this commercial which reminds each of us that America's Marines come from sea to shining sea, they are the young men and women from next door, they are from the fields, the cities and from middle America. This is a reminder to us all to be proud of and grateful for those who, no matter where they grew up, represent each and every one of us who live in this country, no matter where we come from. They are OUR Marines. They belong to us because they chose to serve FOR us. They have honor and courage and they will stand together, with each other, shoulder to shoulder to protect our great nation and we should remember and appreciate them each and every day as they face death. The intent of the commercial is to remind us in our every day lives of work and play that they are there for us and to be grateful. It is a reminder to them that they serve for every man, woman and child all across this nation. It is sad that we need reminding. We were ever mindful on 9/11 - but today we seem to forget. Many think that what they are doing now is fruitless. Those people are gravely misinformed. Terrorism is and always will be on our doorstep. I am grateful these young men and women are willing to give the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our freedoms. You are right, it takes a great amount of forethought and determinatin to make the commitment to serve. EVERY Marine and Marine parent should proud of this brief reminder to Americans to appreciate their commitment to serve and protect - we are.

Debbie Carey, Riverton, KS (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:02 AM)

Maybe this ad is to remind the mother's of Marines how proud they should be?

Maybe this ad is to remind the Mother's of prospective Marines that they are indeed the protectors of our freedoms?

Joseph (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:05 AM)

Great commercial. I could watch a loop of it for an hour. These are truly the future of this country, not the sillines of Sex in the city and the usual gruel from Hollywood and the msm.

John, Prescott, AZ (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:10 AM)

To my mind, this type of ad makes perfect sense to run during "Sex and the City." Frequently the toughest sell for an Armed Forces recruiter is the family - Mom and Dad. The beauty and imagery created by this wonderful ad softens the reality that Marines are a first line of defense and the first to die in any conflict. This ad is not going to make Mom say "Yes dear, run off an fight the good fight." This type of advertising softens a series of very harsh realities. The ad is not "go enlist now you big lug of a guy who is going to save the country." It is: "it's ok to be a Marine as you are fighting to protect all that is beautiful here – your fight is at every one of our treasures… awww, how wonderful…” I do not know the exact demo group for "Sex and the City," but my guess in that a lot of 35-50 year old women are in the audience. Do the math... those are the Moms of our 17-20 year old men – who happen to be the EXACT demographic of the Marine Corps Recruiter.

dk, west palm beach (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:12 AM)

I think that the author has missed the point of this ad. Yes it is to get people interested in joining the Marines but it is also to show what they are there to protect.

The ad plays to the tradition of the Marine Corps and is only one of the many ads that the Marines use. They have done many showing Marines throughout history on the battlefields of WW2- through the current iraq war.

While the ad was about Marines i think the intent wasto invoke a sense of patriotism and pride in our military.

I think the author has read to much into a simple commercial.

What that commercial did for me was make me proud to be one that can call himself a Marine. It reminded me of the reasons that I joined the Marine Corps, to be part of a brotherhood and something that was bigger than me. To be part of a tradition that has shown courage and honor throughout its history and to earn for myself a title that not everyone has gotten: The title of MARINE.

Semper Fi

SLP ,Douglas Wy (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:17 AM)

The sadness is not the commercial, not the fact that it is shown in movie theaters, but that we have become so disconnected to the sacrifice that we question those who make the sacrifice. The news is filled with talk of high gas prices, the effect of the midwest floods on the cost of food, whether the Fed will raise rates, that McMahon is in danger of loosing his Hollywood mansion. Where is the discussion about sacrifice? Where is the discussion about who is bearing that sacrifice? Feel disconnected about an advertisement for the Marines? No surprise there. The country, in general, is disconnected with the war, the military and those who sacrifice for that effort. The greatest mismangement of this effort has been the management of the homefront's expectations. We are disconnected. The movie theater advertisement only proves the point.

Bill Daley, Severna Park, MD (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:17 AM)

I was disappointed to find that when I joined the Marines I never got to execute drill movements on a mountaintop or fight a dragon with a sword (as one ad portrays). A few things military service ads will NEVER show you:

1. Someone sweeping.
2. One person handing another person a clipboard.
3. Being yelled at for not aligning properly in a marching formation.
4. Standing in line for hours on end to get supplies.
5. Reading that your commanding officer got excused from a DUI.

Fact: Only 20-30% of the military will engage in combat. The others will be performing menial tasks like administrative, supply, legal, medical and other supplemental duties that enable the combat personnel to do their jobs. So while those guys are jumping out of airplanes and applying camoflauge paint, you'll probably find yourself behind a desk, under a vehicle, in a warehouse, or driving a truck. Not there's anything wrong with that- but don't let the ingenius marketing suck you in. Be objective.

And by the way: the Marine Corps needs to expand their numbers by about 20,000 in the next 6-8 years, so they're pulling out all the stops.

Mike, Lansing MI (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:19 AM)

With all due respect, Ma'am, that commercial presents exactly what the Corps has to offer. Personal achievemnet, training, and the realization that America's vast beauty is protected by a thin blue line.

B. Moreno (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:21 AM)

Hey Allison Linn - You've obviously never served in the United States Marine Corps. The Marines fight for your right to spew garbage like, : "and we certainly mean no disrespect here." Well, you know what - if you didn't say it, people wouldn't think it.

Piss on you for even thinking of this advertisement anything less than unity and esprit de corps. You pig.

SEMPER FI

Bergdog
3/9

Bergdog (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:22 AM)

That commercial represents everything those marines defend. What's wrong with that? I don't believe movie-goers out to have a good time and enjoy themselves would want to see the actual sacrifices that have been made and those currently being made to actually keep those landmarks shown free. If the marines made a commercial that showed the reality, terror, and inhumanity of war, the controversy would be immense.

To all those currently serving and of prior service reading this, thank you.

Jarrett R. Buchanan, Easton PA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:22 AM)

Being a Marine is being part of an elite group of military men and women. They are the toughest, the bravest, and they are proud to show it. The fact that you would even write this article shows your lack of patriotism. Then again, you were there to see a Sex In The City movie, so perhaps you would have enjoyed an ad for an elite brand of shoes or handbags....God forbid we show you a behind-the-scenes look at the children making those items for your comfort. This ad may not encourage Americans to join the military - but let it be a reminder that our military, including the Marines, have made it possible to live in the places showed in the commercial and more importantly, have provided people like you the freedom to criticize.

Stephanie, California (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:23 AM)

You obviously have never agreed to put a uniform on and serve anything beyond yourself. I find it refreshing that the Marines refuse to submit to gimmicks and ploys used by the other services to recruit young men and women. Fear not, your ignorance as to what the Corps has to offer, bleads through with your every word. Fortunately we still have a few who in times of crisis will take up arms and defend their neighbors.

Curt Dewberry, Tulsa, Ok (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:25 AM)

Whats Wrong with the Military showing "Positive Ads" about our Troops?? How many time have you seen our Troops building schools and hospitals in Iraq and Afganastan?? I mean Before they were Blowen Up by Terrorist killing innocent childern!! How about the school supplies given by our Troops to the kids over there?? No the press would much rather publize the outrages at Abu Graib or supposedly at G'Mo! Or even mostly disregard comments by Senators like Durbin comparing our Troops to Despots like Pol Pot!

R. Travaille (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:27 AM)

The Marine Corps has a famous poster with a caption that reads "We don't promise a rose garden" and they don't. The proudest day in my life is when I graduated from Marine boot camp. Since leaving the Marine Corps in 2003 I have gone to college and earned a B.S. in political science and have start a carrier as a public servant, something that a poor white kid from upstate NY could have only dreamed of. I respect the way you approached this topic with grace. Since I am no longer active duty I can speak my mind about political issues and I am not much in favor the policies that have lead us to the point we are in, regarding the war. My descent however makes me no less patriotic and no less a Marine. For those young Men and Woman that raise their right hand to "support and defend the constitution of the United States" I say Semper Fidelis. May you always remain true to the core values. The act of dedicating your life in service to this nation, even if for four years, is service that you will carry with you for the rest of your life.

Steve, Charlotte, NC (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:31 AM)

Understand your point but I disagree with your conclusion; having been aa active duty Marine for 14 plus years, this commercial conveys that the Marines ARE a part of what makes our country so great. The backdrop shows that Marines come from all parts of America and represent all that America has to offer. An ad like that playing in movie theaters where it may not necessarily be the target demographic has an ancillary benefit of appealing to parents, educators, and society in general that Marines aren't the "roughnecks" as most people still have the impression, but stand for honor, courage and committment. I have no problem with those who look down on the Marine Corps as a choice in life, but please understand that it is an honorable profession that sometimes is the subject to misinformation based on hollywood movies and poor media representation. When you see the commercials and the print ads, be proud that there are many young men and women in today's world who feel that service to country is still a worthwhile investment.

Art Woods, Fort Worth, Texas (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:34 AM)

Silly, the unsaid plot of the commercial is America the Beautiful and that the Marines protect us from sea to shining sea. American Marines protecting the beuty that is our country. It was probably shown before the movie because a lot of the women who are going to see it have sons and daughters who are of the age of enlistment. The Marines are the only service not having enlistment quota problems because of their image. As a former soldier in the Army, I appreciate the sentiments evinced in the add.

Daniel L (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:34 AM)

Maybe this ad placement is to remind the Mother's of Marines that they should be very proud of their children.

Maybe this ad placement is to remind the Mother's of prospective Marines that the Marines are the true protectors of our freedoms and they should support their children's decision.

Joining the Marines is rarely decided by one person.. Mother's, girlfriends, and wives are part of the decision process also. This ad placement is impecable by all means.

Joe, Redding CA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:36 AM)

Ms. Linn, This article is a good example of why you shouldn't open your mouth when speaking about the US Marine Corps or any other branch of the US military. Feel safe the US Marines, Army, navy, Air Force and Coast Guard protect yur liberities so you can write garbage like this piece here. I'm surprised you didn't why the adverisement wasn't showing the Marines having SEX in the City. My gawd girl, are you even thinking about the movie while watching the preview, proably not. I guess you're OK with the previews of Zohan, Harold and Kumar and Lindsay Lohman.

Get a life and appreciate the fact you live in America and get paid to write crap like this article. Not a story, but a short (fairly) insignificant article.

US MARINE

joe the marine (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:37 AM)

Not a Marine, but I am a 39-year old Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force who was right there in the theater with her girlfriend, in fancy shoes, watching the premier of Sex and the City.

I am proud to serve and would make the same decision again today. Contrary to what some folks like to think, I didn't join because I had no options and I didn't join because I had naive dreams of glory. I joined after college, leaving a radio news job, because I wanted the challenge, the leadership and the experience. I planned to stay 4 years...I stayed active for 7 and have spent the last 10 in the Reserves.

People join the military for many reasons. You are right...anyone who joins the military should--and probably has--given it a lot of thought. It is a big commitmen, no doubt. I serve with many young active duty troops who joined after 9/11. They knew exactly what they were getting into and they are proud to serve. Regardless of whether the average American would be moved to join, it's still wonderful to know there are noble paths--selfless paths--that transcend Hollywood. Seeing it on the big screen as a moving reminder that while we sit in the cool theater munching popcorn, that there are folks on point for us, is a good thing, to my way of thinking. The beautiful Marine Corps ad showcases that wonderfully.

Amber Cargile (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:41 AM)

Okay. This writer has absolutely no idea what she's talking about. Simply put, the way that ad makes you feel, is exactly the same feeling you get when being a Marine, no matter what the circumstances. Don't ever let someone who has no experience in what she writes about tell you what is good for you. Semper Fi.

Sgt. Juarez (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:43 AM)

I don't think the Marines are trying to distract anyone from the fact that there's a war being fought. I think the point of the ad is to remind us that the USMC ranks among the other things shown in the ad that make America so great (and I served in the US Army, so I'm not trying to plug my own service).

John, Largo, FL (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:44 AM)

IT TAKES UNSELLFISH SACRIFICE TO UNDERSTAND WHAT IT TAKES TO BE FREE. THANK GOD THAT WE HAVE HAD SO FEW SACRIFICE SO MUCH FOR SO MANY!IN THE HISTORY OF OUR COUNRTY SO YOU CAN WRITE WHAT YOUR WRITE SAY WHAT YOU SAY AND DO WHAT YOU DO.

Cliff A Sauer Odessa Texas (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:49 AM)

Despite much of the anti-recruiting messages out there, it has been my experience that the men and women who sign up to become a U.S. Marine are extremely well informed about what they are getting themselves into. The belief that these Marines are some how bamboozled into joining is, in my belief, an elitist, condescending attitude.

Ty, San Diego, CA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:49 AM)

I think you are missing the point of the commercial. Being a former Marine and from a family of Marines, there is something bigger the Marine Corps is trying to show. That this country was, is, and will always be guarded by men and women whose goal is absolute perfection not just in our duty, but from whatever it is we try to accomplish. I swell a little with pride whenever I see these commercials. Semper Fi.

James Thomas (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:01 PM)

You're points are well taken. My son (15) is considering the Marines. I am a Navy Veteran myself. The commercial is about country, protecting it, and, more importantly discipline and training.

I have had lots of conversations with my son through the years about the Marines and the Army. How great it is, the camaraderie etc. However, I have also been brutally frank with him that this is not about joining for free college tuition aid, this is a dangerous business, especially now, and that people will die. That he has to consider the consequences more than just wearing a pretty uniform to impress the girls.

This is the same conversation my father had with me when I was 17 and more parents need to have this conversation.

Tom

Tom Trujillo (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:03 PM)

You kidding me? Maybe you just learned something about the Honor and Courage of the young men and women in the Marine Corps. The ad is much more than a recruiting piece as you relate to; it speaks to the heart and sole of the Marine Corps - the few the proud who are willing to serve something bigger than themselves.

A Marine (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:09 PM)

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