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

the Writer, Alison Lynn doesn't get it. the Marines are not just a branch of the military, they are "The" branch.

The commercial is perfect in explaining what the Marines are.

American Jarhead (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:14 PM)

As a former Marine Sergeant who served two combat tours in Iraq, I got a little choked up when I first saw this ad in my local movie theatre. My personal opinion is that the ad is less about joining the military and more of a reminder of what it is that we're fighting for. There's nothing wrong with that. This country, and its people, could always use a little more patriotism. I never knew a Marine that signed up for the benefits. We all volunteered because we had a desire to serve our country no matter the conflict or the politics surrounding it.

L. Wilson, Springfield, MO (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:16 PM)

To serve in the Military has never lost its most basic importance, to Defend this country and it's Constitution. To sacrifice ones rights so that others, including the author of this article, can criticize the very nature of what has been given up for their freedom. Dating back to every conflict that this country has been involved in, no one can document numbers so low of lives that have been lost. This in no way beguiles us from that ultimate sacrifice, but instead, only reaffirms that this country has been spoiled by never having such a travesty of similar conflict on it’s own soil. We have had the luxury of never having witnessed such a conflict in our own backyard and there by giving us the opportunity to criticize every episode as we watch it with comfort on CNN. There is a pride that exists amongst those that serve, a pride and belonging that others will never come to understand. So, when many calmly complain as they walk through their day to day freedoms, abusing some and exercising others; they do so with out the knowledge that there was a service member who made that possible. Like the Marines in that video that made a promise with conviction, that they will step in harms way to ensure that our country never suffer the violence of combat on our own soil. If you like that comfort of knowing your children can go to school without having to learn of the violence of war with their own eyes, then be more appreciative of those who volunteer to ensure that freedom.

Daniel Adams, Phoenix, AZ (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:25 PM)

I joined the Corps in 1964, eyes wide open. I get chills watching the commercial. Pandering? Hardly. The Corps' reputation precedes it and the commercial. Ignorance of what to expect can be eliminated by browsing the web or visiting the National Museum of the Marine Corps located in Quantico, VA.
If one is considering military service, the opportunity to serve with the finest should not be overlooked.

Semper Fidelis!

J. Michael Jones (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:26 PM)

My son is a United States Marine. He joined the Marine Corp because it represents what we as a nation have fought for, independence, freedom, liberty and the pursuite of happiness. He is aware of all the complex issues that face our country and our military. The good the bad and the ugly. He still chose to protect and serve this country that has made so much available to so many. The beauty associated with this country is refelcted in the awsome sight of our young people in their dress blues with some of the most beautiful scenery our country has to offer. We need to respect the people who step up and risk it all to protect our right to say and do what ever we want. Trust me no one joins the Corp becuase they have been misled to beileive that this is anything other then what it is, An honor to serve and risk it all for all of us. God Bless our Military and keep them safe but most of all let there sacrifices not be in vain. Let the people of this nation get inspired to serve and help our country and other countries that see the United States and our liberties and want the same for themselves. We are not perfect but we are worth protecting and fighting for and I wouldn't want to live any place else.

BC, Rhode Island (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:28 PM)

There is nothing that turns me off or felt pandered to, this commercial shows our traditions, our honor and our commitment to our Country and Corps.

Oohrah!

Train, Philadelphia, Pa (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:29 PM)

Sometimes we go to the movies to escape reality. I think it is fantastic that the Marines took time to make such a beautiful video to share with the world. It's nice to escape but it is also important to remember those who give us our freedom to be able to sit in a movie theater and watch a movie for a couple of hours. God bless our Marines ~ Semper Fi!!!

G.R.~ California (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:30 PM)

The opinion in your story makes it obvious you've never been a Marine or been very close to one. My husband has been a Marine for 9 years and he loves these commercials. So do most of his friends, as well as the "new boots." Why do they love them? Because there is no contradiction. What the commercial presents IS reality for Marines. Pride, honor, strength, greatness. These are all qualities that describe almost every Marine I've ever met. I would say that these commercials will not appeal to everyone. Those who would make the sacrafice and feel "pandered to," well, those are the ones who will join another branch of the military. The Corps isn't for everyone but these commercials appeal to exaclty the type of people the Corps is looking for. Yes, joining the Corps is, and always has been an agreement to risk your life for your country. It's not a new concept. Don't like it? Join the Navy.

Jolene, Yuma, AZ (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:34 PM)

Boy where do I start. It's pretty clear that you have no idea why an 18-19 year old would find that ad inspiring. The point of the ad is to say that when marines stand guard and fight in a foreign land they do so to protect the very beauty that is so spectacular in the commercial. What would you have the marines do? Have an ad with bloody Vietnam/Gulf War/Iraq war footage? You mention money/education funds as a recruiting tool. Should a young person make a decision on serving their country primarily on the basis of money? I can speak for myself and I did not join because of monetary incentive (it isn't that much given the work!) I joined because I wanted to be a (small) part of a long history of heroism and service to our country. The marines are not the Army. We have never had ads running that try and buy recruits into joining. Even going back to WWI or WWII the marines did not use that as a tool. (First to fight! - ?) You need a lesson in marines history to understand that ad.

Chris, Tacoma, WA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:38 PM)

This is exactly what is wrong with this country. Instead of remembering that our military are the ones responsible for giving us the liberty to sit in a movie theatre and watch a movie about the sexcapades of a group of women, we are too busy over analyzing the rights and wrongs of a commercial that narrates the honor of what it is to serve your country. I am curious to know what you have done to serve your country besides publish meaningless articles about things you have absolutely NO clue about. Your comment about the "sobering truth" of joining the service "THESE DAYS" means risking your life for your country. Well since when did joining the military mean otherwise??? This country has been involved in conflicts since the birth of our independence. Remember the Revolution, Civil War, WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm??? Joining the service has ALWAYS been about serving your country and accepting all of the risks that come along with that. Not about the college money or "benefits" that come along with it. Take it from a very proud Marine Wife whose husband is currently in Iraq fighting for ALL of our rights, there is no benefit greater than the honor of defending this nation like COUNTLESS other men and women have done for over 200 years now. That commercial simply reminds us that there is no greater honor than defending your country. The Marine Corps is unlike any other branch. They only take the best. And they are sure that when a man or woman comes to enlist they are aware of exactly what is expected of them. And no it is not all pretty. It takes sacrifice but it also takes a special degree of patriotism which is what that commercial represents. You say you mean no disrepect but by scrutinizing the intent of an advertisement by a branch of service that is responsible for your very freedom of speech is disrespectful.

Diana, Louisville, KY (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:39 PM)

I think your comments are a bit simplistic, as is the focus of your writing. In other words, its okay to view pre-movie commercials about sitcoms, bath soap, and dentists, but not about United States Marines.

I also think its safe to say, that the women and men who choose to serve in the military understand the gravity of risks and benefits thereof, and have made informed decisions about their military service.

All wars are wrong, but until the day comes when we can turn swords into spires, we must have effective defensive forces. In the meantime, these cinema- quality commercials remind us of the sacrifices made by these brave and unique women and men on a daily basis.

It is because of the soldier, sailor, airman, and Marine that you can sit in comfort at your desk in Manhattan, and write about pre-movie commercials. So please, instead of words of judgment, offer thanks and support.

Sincerely,
Omar W. Rosales, J.D.
CAPT USMC '97-'03

Omar W. Rosales, Austin, Texas (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:44 PM)

I think Allison is being a little bit hyperanalytical here. As an ex-paratrooper, VietNam vet I can say that, while we are quite aware of the grim realities of the job, most military folks enjoy a thrill of pride and glory on those occasions when we can realize our participation with thousands of others in a worthwhile task. There is a primal joy at joining and belonging to a group of people that is the best at what they do.

Mike Sims, San Luis Obispo, CA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:49 PM)

Interesting article and point of view Alison and please do not take offense but, maybe you are off the mark by just a bit. This particular commercial is a tie in with a website that has several interviews with many past and current Marines telling in their own words what they have gained by serving in the Marines. The Marines have the best collection of ads bar none. Maybe it is from their long experience or just because they might know a thing or two more than you and I, they are as of April 08, at 142% of their recruiting goals. I do not think that the people they have recruited feel pandered to, they just feel something more when they see that commercial than you apperently did. The Marines will advertise their way, why don't you sit back and just enjoy the movie.

Charles, Annapolis MD (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:50 PM)

As a retired Marine, I suspect you're reading too much into the ad, and not giving enough respect to the volunteers who join.

While I'm sure there are exceptions, I can't imagine too many making such a decision based on a commercial, regardless of how good or bad it is. At best, commercials plant a seed, which eventually puts the individual down a new road of consideration.

If anyone joins the Marines with any misconceptions about what's waiting for them on the other end of the bus ride, it isn't the commercial that created those misconceptions - its recruiters who failed (sometimes intentionally) to give an accurate impression of what to expect. But those misconceptions are usually cleared up in the first five minutes or so at Parris Island or San Diego.

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 12:58 PM)

Frankly, as the mother of a Marine, I'd much rather be watching an ad showing outstanding and uplifting footage of patriotic young Marines who are dedicated to the honor of this country, than watching Sex and the City and other movies of the same ilk, which, with their explicit scenes of licentious and gratuitous sex, seem to be determined to undermine the morals and values that this great nation was founded upon.

Patti Ridgeway, Williamston, SC (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 1:04 PM)

Patti Ridgeway, Williamston, SC (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 1:05 PM)

As a former Marine who was a recruiter I can tell you that the lure of the Marine Corps is not the blood and guts. It's not the sting of the battle or the constant drill. It was our sharpness in uniforms. The way we carry ourselvs through the day. This commercial sells what young men and woman love about our beloved Corps. Everyone knows that Marines go off to war. They know that many will pay the ultimate price for raising that right hand. My perspecive recruits only wanted to know when do I get my dress blues. It was the same for me. They didn't have to remind me of the hard road ahead. All I wanted to know was the reward of becoming a Marine and showing my friends and family that I was now among the best fighting force the world has ever known. If that commercial doesn't make you want to enlist in the Marines you most likely never wanted to become the point of Americian diplomacy in the first place. In which case I would have spent my time on a young American who walked in to my office and said "here I am". "What do I have to do to be you?"
My respnose; "How bad do you want it?"

SGT Jeremy R. Nelson, FT Leonard Wood, MO (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 1:06 PM)

Reality...When is it ever so? If you expect to see only models and white smiles on the beaches of Jamaica because that's what they showed on the commercials, or believe any of the beer commercials linking everything fun with having a Budweiser...you're an idiot to begin with.
You join the Marine Corps to travel to exotic locations and kill people.
Buyer beware.

Jim Nimon, Butler NJ (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 1:07 PM)

Nobody joins the Marines because they see some people twirling some rifles in front of a bridge. Anyone who joins, regardless of it being a time of peace or war, knows what they are in for. I think that you would be hard pressed to find even one Marine who would say, "You know, I really thought that this was going to be more like summer camp."

Mike, Chicago, IL (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 1:15 PM)

The Marines are not looking for the typical 20 something to join. We are looking for those that want to be a Marine and nothing else. Being a sailor, soldier, airman, while honorable and deserving of respect, is not the same as being a Marine. Most who join the Marines realize that we are generally the first to fight and that is part of lure to become a Marine. A Marine Corps commercial does not sway a person to become a Marine, it simply reminds those that want to be a Marine, that now is the time to join.

Inactive Marine, Wellford, SC (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 1:18 PM)

I think the point of Americas Marines was to interact with the parents, teachers, and influential people of this country and show them the other side of the Marine Corps. We are not just faceless warriors fighting on a battlefield. We come from all walks of life; we are your neighbors, your friends, your brothers.

Semper Fi

Joseph DiGirolamo (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 1:41 PM)

This add shows the commitment, discipline, honor adn espirt de coprs, that still exists in the dedication and self acrifice to become a United States Marine. It does not matter if they show this before the evening news or a movie, it gave you cause to think for one moment that while you are drinking your starbucks, speaking your mind, and complaining about what he said she said, you can do that because of the men on that screen.

Semper Fi

Train, Tun Tavern Chapter, Leathernecks MC (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 1:43 PM)

Thanks for the free advertising!!!

Sgt. L, San Antonio, Texas (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 1:54 PM)

WOW! Your comments are way off base. Our Son is one of the "privliged few" who is receiving a college education paid for by his parents, he won't leave college in debt, he has options. YET HE CHOSE TO BE A UNITED STATES MARINE. He currently spends one weekend a month and every summer serving his country and he can't wait to do it full time. When his father and I asked him why the Marines? He simple said, "Because not everyone can be a Marine." Does that sum it up for you? They truly are the Few, the Proud.......

m. smith (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 1:58 PM)

The commercials are beautiful. It reminds those us us that will forever be a "former" Marine, the reasons that we signed those papers. It is tough to sign the papers knowing you may die, knowing that you will suffer, that you may not make it back. I for one think it would have been tougher to live with myself knowing I didn't offer to die for this country that has allowed my family to come here and make a wonderful life.

The parents should be proud that their children would want to be a part of that. When I was new in the neighborhood (an upper middle class cul-de-sac) this lady came up to me and told me her sons were prime picks for the USMC, that I should stay away from them and not try to get them to join, she would never allow it. I have seen her 16yr old kid die of a heroin overdose this year. Ironic, considering I just saw my other neighbors kid come back from the war and it going to start using his GI Bill. Semper FI.

Always a Marine, Pittsburgh PA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 1:59 PM)

In 1999 my son volenteered to join the Corp. He did two tours in Iraq and was decorated for valor in combat for service in Falujah in 2004. There was no war in 1999. He signed up because, if the country needed warriors, he wanted to be there. Marines don't pick the conflict, they just pick being the best warriors in the world, and they do it for us. For the past 9 years I befriended the local recruiters. I was most happy and proud to see how many kids they turned down. As my son was now in combat I did not want to see them sending any losers to stand by his side. After 9 years my son moved home. Last week he signed with the local police department, no glitze ads, he just wants to stand in the gap and count for something. Not something that a person who loves the Sex in the City selfish, you centered life style would comprehend. I imagine that is why you write the way you do, because you don't have a clue. God Bless the Corp. Scott Thompson, proud Marine Corp Father.

Scott Thompson, Anchorage, Alaska (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:00 PM)

I am a 65 year old Viet Nam veteran and a 20+ year retiree from the US Air Force. I entered the service in 1963 as a draftee - not a lottery draft, but a full 100% draft where everyone eligible was drafted. While watching TV five years ago as our armed forces was entering Iraq, I turned to my wife and told her that I wish I was 19 years old again and a US Marine. I wanted with all of my being to be a marine and part of the Irag effort. While I was proud to be an airman in the Air Force, I hold the Marine Corp higher. They are an outstanding example what is great about our country. Not to hold our other services at a lower standing, but a "Marine is a Marine". You should be grateful that you seen such a beautiful and patriotic commercial prior to your movie. God bless the American armed forces.

Rick Gispanski, Crestview, Florida (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:06 PM)

That ad is one of the most beautiful I've ever seen! you obviously didn't get the point that it's not about recruiting, it's about the wonderful men and women who serve our country and put themselves in harms way. Seeing that ad should make every American proud !

Mom of Marine, Wakefield, RI (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:11 PM)

I don't know where you saw the movie but I sat in a full theater of 18-22 year olds. I was shocked that as I left there seemed to be only 2 others who were like me over 40. So it seems that this add hit the perfect target audience.

Marine Mom (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:15 PM)

m. smith, missouri (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:21 PM)

All well spoken responses Marines! I wouldn't have expected anything less. Nor could I add anything more. The writer is obviously mis-informed and delusioned by whatever idiot tought her/him to be that way. There's no way they will ever understand.
Carry on Marines, Semper Fi

Doc Connor HM1 (FMF), Corvallis, OR (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:23 PM)

I fail to understand what this article is trying to say; I don't understand what the point the author is trying to make here... also, I am not sure whether USMC specifically tried to put their ad during the preview time for "Sex and the City", and I'll bet that they would rather not, and should ask for their money back... but nevertheless, having this ad does make a pretty good contrast of everything that USMC stands for and the lifestyle of these ladies portray in "Sex and the City" (walking down the street thinking everybody is hitting on them, what a joke! sadly enough I have actually sat thru some episodes of the TV series)... Semper Fi, I did my time too...

LJ, Silicon Valley (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:25 PM)

My Dear Ms. Linn,
May I say with all sincerity, y9u are obviously misled and somewhat uninformed. Or you are too self engrossd in the "Sex in the City" lifestyle that the realities of life as an American has eluded you.
You appear to have missed the entire concept of the advertisement...it is about what has made this country what it is today. Those who are willing to step up to the plate and stand for something other than the next fashion craze or video game.
We Marines, past and present, knew what we were getting into when we walked into the Recruiters office and stated our intention to become something above and beyond. The bottom line is that we did and placed this country and the people that inhabit it before us.
As retired Marine and the last enlisted Vietnam veteran to retire from active duty, I would do it again to ensure the freedoms that we enjoy and have a tendency to take for granted.
By the way, if you can read this...thank a veteran for ensuring that you can. Thank a Marine for being there when America needs them.

Sincerely, "Gruntasaus Rex" MSgt USMC (Ret)

Randall Arnold, Stafford, VA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:39 PM)

As a Marine, I think the negative comments about the Marine Corps ad are silly. But what else do you expect from the few who are anti-war and anti-military? They are free to express their disdain and misgivings about my Marine Corps but they are mostly a pathetic bunch who I feel sorry for.

Thomas J. Cunnally (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:40 PM)

You, are not smart. Or at least, not nearly as savvy as you think you are.

Another Marine (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:44 PM)

What a stupid article. Maybe because you spend so much time in movie theaters you don't turn on the news every day to be reminded about "the other side of the coin" is. Anyone like you who assumes only idiots go into service with their eyes open should go to a veterans hospital and ask if people felt duped. Fewer than 1% would say they were.

Chris Philadelphia (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:55 PM)

Reading through the comments there is nothing left unsaid. Everytime I watch this commercial I get butterflies in my stomach. It sends me back to the moment I was standing on the parade deck at the recruit depot in San Diego and received my Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. Ooh Rah and Semper Fidelis

Jeremy Fricke, MN (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:56 PM)

I think the ad is aimed at the few boyfriends who are coerced by their female counterparts to buy a ticket for and watch "Sex & the City" -- the ad says, "Here, Dude, here's a way to get away from her and reclaim your manhood! Here's your way out!" Ingenious!

Valdosta, GA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:06 PM)

I believe this article was a long time coming; for years the Marine Corps has clamored for the adoration of the American public like an insecure 15 year-old girl, while the rest of the military branches have done their job without such fanfare.

Here is what a service member is expected to do if they weren't drafted: Sign up. Serve. Do the right thing. Mourn the fallen. COLLECT YOUR PAY. Shut up.

All this hoopla about "courage" and "honor" are mere enticements. It's called MARKETING. The Marine Corps has no less or no more honor or courage than your local police or fire department.

This article isn't reflective of someone who lacks patriotism; it's merely a perspective of one who sees things from a civilian standpoint. Many of you Marines are unable to examine an institution critically. Perhaps they should change the motto from Semper Fi (Always Faithful) to Hopelessly Brainwashed.

Mike, Lansing (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:06 PM)

That commercial shows that America owes everything to its Marines. That all of those beautiful landscapes don't exist without the Marine Corps (and the Army, the Navy, the Air Force).

Dave, St Louis, MO (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:09 PM)

Clearly advertising is not this writer's expertise. The Marine Corps has a very clear picture of their target market. This is clear from the fact that they always meet their recruiting goals. One should not argue with success.

Michael Allen, Richmond, VA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:09 PM)

The Marine Corps Silent Drill Team is an excellent example of the discipline that the Marine Corps exemplifies, however; it is not the only job in the Marine Corps.

In future commercials, it should show other occupations such as the infantry, artilleryman, tanks. There is a whole lot more to the Marine Corps than the Silent Drill Team. It was a good commerical that was well done, but next time the creators should expand their horizons and give the American public a little taste of the rest of the Fleet Marine Force. Albeit, without showing the gruesomeness but somehow showing the reality of it. That'd be a great factor, in helping people make a decision to enlist or not.

Ryan Wyland

Ryan Wyland (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:14 PM)

Uncle Sams Misguided Children - God Bless each and everyone of them. You are ALWAYS a Marine. The ad brought me to tears, I am so proud of all the men and women who serve our country, it does not matter which branch you are in your are all the best America has to offer and I thank each and every one of you.
A proud Aunt ( 82nd Airborne KIA 4-23-07 Randy Marshall)

Cindy Dobbs - Sorrento,FL (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:16 PM)

Uniformed liberals like you always have to find something negative to say about the military-cant you just say thank you, and appreciate this particular ad for its beauty and truth?????

Shelly Burgoyne (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:20 PM)

Uninformed liberals like you always have something negative to say about the military, cant you just say thank you and appreciate this particular ad for its beauty and truth? Perhaps deep inside you want to feel as fufilled and strong as a Marine, but know that you will never have the guts to serve something greater than yourself, therefore you will remain weak and bound to your insignifigant, self serving and empty work.

Shelly Burgoyne, Pacific Grove Ca (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:25 PM)

Having served in the Marines in the past, this small clip brings back a lot of memories of my active duty life and makes me still sit up straighter and walk a little taller. It makes me remember that I am part of that brotherhood..... It makes me feel proud of all my accomplishments and what the Corps has given me and how I still live my life and carrier utilizing all those basic principles the Marines instilled in me. Watching clips like that refreshes your memories and gives us all that served, are serving or have family in the service a little bit of extra pride. God bless the Corps!

Ed A. Huntington Beach, Ca. (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:40 PM)

I think this ad is great. When I watched it I felt proud of my Country and proud of my Corp.

Tyler, San Francisco, CA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:44 PM)

First, those of you freaking out because you're convinced the author is attacking the Marine Corps - you have to chill. When someone unconnected with the Corps, even someone who may be more liberal in their politics, says anything remotely connected with the Corps (this is an AD CAMPAIGN, not the Marine Corps itself, for example), a large number of people are guaranteed to get their panties in a twist, convinced that, no matter what words come out, they must be disrespecting the Corps. She's not. She's talking about thinking the ad seemed a little weird.

Further, those of you who say Marines fight so she will be able to say these things, and then imply that she should shut up - I won't tell you to shut up, because I, too, believe in that right, but I will say you sound like a moron.

I think these ads are hard to swallow for civilians with no connections to the Corps sometimes because the military is a classically non-partisan institution - and in that non-partisanship, lacks the cynicism that tinges everything in popular culture. Thus, an advertisement about the Corps before a shining example of that cynical popular culture is likely to feel out of place to a lot of people.

I do think those of you who have surmised that it might be directed at mothers in the audience have a good point. A lot of those audience members are there for a little cinematic escapism from their worries - worries, perhaps, about a son or daughter who is enlisting or thinking about it. The ad offers a little bit of that escapism to those audience members, of a different kind - it attempts to cut past the worry and the hardship and show the ideals behind serving.

I saw a different ad for the Corps before a more "guy" movie, one that was definitely directed at recruitment of young men. My husband was with me, and he had mixed feelings about the ad - it was very flashy, and he said it seemed a little patronizing. The "never promised you a rose garden" ads were *great* - I think they should bring them back.

I think a big part of why the current conflict is so forgotten is that civilian Americans have not been told to sacrifice, and we don't really get to see the sacrifices of soldiers returning with any kind of honor. Restrictions on the media have made the deaths nothing more than recited numbers, and we see the wounded only when the system fails them.

- A Marine wife (and a liberal)

Jo D., San Diego, CA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:52 PM)

A message to the writer, Ms. Allison Linn: I am the OH-SO-PROUD wife of a Marine, who served his country, including two tours of duty in Vietnam. What our Marines went through then, and before then... and what our Marines go through now, there are just no words to describe. Whatever happened to heartfelt gratitude for what they... and all our troops... have done and continue to do to protect us so selflessly! to give us the freedom to live in this country that they so proudly serve?! The “reality” is that this beautiful and profound ad conjures nothing “disingenuous” to those who truly know what “Semper Fi” really means.

Barbara Klunder, wife of Sgt. Roger W. Klunder, USMC

Barbara Klunder, Holland, Michigan (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:56 PM)

You don't walk into a store without knowing what you are looking for. As a former Marine I knew what I was getting into. It didn't take a commercial to sell me. This commercial is about honor, courage and commitment. It's not about trying to turn someone and making them want to join. The author of this article obviously has no clue of what she is talking about and doesn't even deserve to be writing about the military. Don't try and sell your article with the title of a useless television show that only women who sit around a knitting circle watch.

SSgt K, Stroudsburg, PA (Sent Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:56 PM)

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