Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jerry Shelton — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:42:22 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Steven Mills, Shawnee, Ok — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:46:28 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Clark Snyder, Dayton, Ohio — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:51:16 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

CYNTHIA, T., VA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:52:40 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

sue m, dumfries, va — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:07:29 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

John S, Huntsville AL — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:19:17 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

John W., Jacksonville, NC — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:23:54 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Michael , Scottsdale,AZ — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:25:20 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Matt McElroy — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:30:47 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

ProudMarine Dad, Northern Virginia — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:34:55 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Bill Robins, Cedar Hill, TX — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:41:28 GMT

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!!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Johnny comemarching home — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:42:05 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Eric LaCourse, Vermilion, Ohio — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:43:25 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Chris Lester — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:54:15 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Cpl. Stuey, Ocean City, MD — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:00:01 GMT

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'

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Cynthia, West Chester, PA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:05:44 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jason — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:06:55 GMT

"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..."

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Richard Tyrrell, Philadelhia, PA. — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:20:21 GMT

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 !

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Tom, Eatontown, NJ — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:24:37 GMT

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!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Chris McLain — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:32:12 GMT

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!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Debbie Washougal, wa — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:51:01 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mark Nynka, Succasunna, NJ — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:55:52 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Scott, Raleigh, NC — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:00:51 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Debbie Carey, Riverton, KS — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:02:44 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Joseph — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:05:41 GMT

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?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

John, Prescott, AZ — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:10:38 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

dk, west palm beach — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:12:55 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

SLP ,Douglas Wy — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:17:46 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Bill Daley, Severna Park, MD — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:17:52 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mike, Lansing MI — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:19:52 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

B. Moreno — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:21:56 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Bergdog — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:22:44 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jarrett R. Buchanan, Easton PA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:22:51 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Stephanie, California — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:23:53 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Curt Dewberry, Tulsa, Ok — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:25:55 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

R. Travaille — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:27:20 GMT

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!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

R. Travaille — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:27:46 GMT

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Steve, Charlotte, NC — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:31:01 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Art Woods, Fort Worth, Texas — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:34:13 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Daniel L — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:34:26 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Joe, Redding CA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:36:04 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

joe the marine — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:37:26 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Amber Cargile — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:41:36 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Sgt. Juarez — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:43:47 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

John, Largo, FL — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:44:06 GMT

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).

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Cliff A Sauer Odessa Texas — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:49:26 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Ty, San Diego, CA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:49:43 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

James Thomas — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:01:41 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Tom Trujillo — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:03:22 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

A Marine — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:09:53 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

American Jarhead — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:14:38 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

L. Wilson, Springfield, MO — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:16:58 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Daniel Adams, Phoenix, AZ — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:25:47 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

J. Michael Jones — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:26:34 GMT

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!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

BC, Rhode Island — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:28:54 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Train, Philadelphia, Pa — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:29:05 GMT

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!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

G.R.~ California — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:30:05 GMT

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!!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jolene, Yuma, AZ — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:34:41 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Chris, Tacoma, WA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:38:38 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Diana, Louisville, KY — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:39:12 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Omar W. Rosales, Austin, Texas — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:44:50 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mike Sims, San Luis Obispo, CA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:49:58 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Charles, Annapolis MD — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:50:45 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:58:03 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Patti Ridgeway, Williamston, SC — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:04:29 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Patti Ridgeway, Williamston, SC — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:05:04 GMT

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

SGT Jeremy R. Nelson, FT Leonard Wood, MO — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:06:36 GMT

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?"

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jim Nimon, Butler NJ — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:07:55 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mike, Chicago, IL — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:15:38 GMT

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."

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Inactive Marine, Wellford, SC — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:18:53 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Joseph DiGirolamo — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:41:24 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Train, Tun Tavern Chapter, Leathernecks MC — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:43:54 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Sgt. L, San Antonio, Texas — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:54:44 GMT

Thanks for the free advertising!!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

m. smith — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:58:51 GMT

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.......

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Always a Marine, Pittsburgh PA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:59:37 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Scott Thompson, Anchorage, Alaska — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:00:27 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Rick Gispanski, Crestview, Florida — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:06:25 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mom of Marine, Wakefield, RI — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:11:14 GMT

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 !

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Marine Mom — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:15:02 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

m. smith, missouri — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:21:06 GMT

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Doc Connor HM1 (FMF), Corvallis, OR — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:23:52 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

LJ, Silicon Valley — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:25:58 GMT

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...

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Randall Arnold, Stafford, VA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:39:34 GMT

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)

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Thomas J. Cunnally — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:40:54 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Another Marine — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:44:01 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Chris Philadelphia — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:55:43 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jeremy Fricke, MN — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:56:24 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Valdosta, GA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:06:42 GMT

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!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mike, Lansing — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:06:46 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Dave, St Louis, MO — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:09:17 GMT

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).

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Michael Allen, Richmond, VA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:09:52 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Ryan Wyland — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:14:09 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Cindy Dobbs - Sorrento,FL — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:16:46 GMT

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)

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Shelly Burgoyne — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:20:58 GMT

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?????

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Shelly Burgoyne, Pacific Grove Ca — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:25:08 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Ed A. Huntington Beach, Ca. — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:40:08 GMT

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!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Tyler, San Francisco, CA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:44:13 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jo D., San Diego, CA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:52:37 GMT

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)

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Barbara Klunder, Holland, Michigan — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:56:49 GMT

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

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

SSgt K, Stroudsburg, PA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:56:55 GMT

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.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Marine Wife 9 Years — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:08:50 GMT

Clueless, clueless, clueless. Ooops! Your ignorance is showing! What a waste of cyberspace!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Hue Manbeing L.A. — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:09:12 GMT

Sounds like the USMC has done a great job in brainwashing it's subjects into believing that war is noble, righteous, patriotic and for freedom. And, that killing people and or giving your life to the politically conservative republican perspective is the highest honor? Enjoy, because you are the warriors of a declining empire! Get a clue? Who me or you!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jon Hennington, Salt Lake City, Utah — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:15:43 GMT

This ad simply and beautifully captures the essense of what it means to be a Marine. Well done.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Kevin Firmin, Houston, Texas — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:21:54 GMT

I have to ask: Where were you when you wrote this article? At you plush office or maybe at home in your bed with a laptop? I challenge you to go to a Marine Corps base, take a tour, look around, ask questions (they will be answered), break bread with some Marines... Because maybe then you will think twice about writing something like this. You are everything that is wrong with todays media, you speak (write) before you know or have experienced anything.. Be proud that you have be provide with that right...

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Stephen Ring, Phoenix AZ — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:36:29 GMT

As a former Marine I would like to point out what is obviously not apparent to non-Marines.

You will never see a Marine Corps ad appealing to selfish interests. No touting of bonus money or focusing on after service education dollars. No "Army of one" or "accelerate your life".. The Marine Corps appeals to individuals who admire courage and love dearly their country. Those who wish to challenge themselves with the eliteness of serving with the best. To challenge themselves to become part of the legacy that is the Corps.

It is an indescribable, irresistable allure which once attained, is something that only "brothers" understand. So instead of resenting the inability of the self-serving and self interested to understand I rest comfortably knowing that its exactly that inability to understand that sets us apart.

Semper Fi brothers

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Thomas Campbell, MGySgt, USMC, Ret. — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:38:56 GMT

I did 30+ years as a Marine. It was hard, dangerous, work but I look back on it with many wonderful memories. Self-sacrifice, dedication, loyalty, courage, and fortitude are among the values that are sorely lacking in this country and are stock and trade for Marines. I'm not surprised that so many people don't understand that because, as the recruiting poster says; "If everybody had what it takes to be a Marine, we wouldn't be the Marines!"

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Joe, Pittsburgh, PA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:45:23 GMT

Wow...the comments left here are disturbing. This woman was clearly discussing a marketing and promotion choice...an advertising strategy if you will about how an organization (The Marines) chooses to market it's product. i'm disturbed at the ridiculous leaps that the commenters made. Accusing the author that: she doesn't appreciate the freedom she has as an American, doesn't respect the military, needs to "strap on a flack jacket", she hides behind the first ammendment she is shallow, self-absorbed, unAmerican, and ungrateful is beyond comprehension. You can certainly point out, as some here have done well, the reasons you think the ad works. But why did so many choose such personal attacks? You dishonor your service by resorting to such personal attacks. Demonstrate the integrity of your character and your military experience by engage in a reasoned discussion without trying to make it about something deeper and more sinister. The comments posted here are shameful.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

mike, leesburg — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:46:05 GMT

My God woman you are shallow. I swear that if you didn't have opposable thumbs, dogs would eat you for breakfast. Do you not know there is a war on? Your dribble only proves to show that anyone can make a living in life. The Marines make life worth living. Get a clue, read these comments, then go learn a trade where you make something...of yourself.
Semper Fi Marines.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Brooke — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:46:47 GMT

I find that this ad symbolizes and entails all that it means to be a Marine. From their proud heritage to their unwavering courage. to their precise discipline. I am not a Marine, but I know many Marines, and this commercial instills in me honor to know the Marines that I know and so much respect for each of them that serve our country. It really inspires me to want to be part of such an admirable group of people.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

MrPex, Sacramento, CA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:52:49 GMT

There's a lot that you said worthy or just railing against, but the single, most ignorant and selfish statement that struck me was your comment about the United States being in a protracted, deadly conflict and signing up for the Marines (or any branch of the service) is, "...very literally an agreement to risk your life for your country."

Just what the hell do you think the military is all about?

Even when we weren't in combat, the people in my career field, on a daily basis, handled and used deadly explosives, living up to, even during "peace time", our agreement to risk our lives for our country.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Nathan, Hampton, VA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:53:59 GMT

Don't worry no patriotic criticism from this commenter. Rather, I will offer what I believe is the reasoning for this add and the reason for its placement.

Let's first look at the brand image of the Marines: Sacrifice, Pride, Respect, Tough as Nails, Uniquely-American, etc. All of these images are portrayed in this commercial. Furthermore, it is done so favorably by equating the Marines with the beautiful (visual) imagery that is America, and rightfully so.

Second, let's examine the target market. The journalist might think that the target market is twenty somethings. However, the Marines' brand relies on a favorable view by all Americans. The goal here is not necessarily to persuade the minds of potential recruits, but rather to communicate the brand image of the Marines to any American. If thirty-somethings with little to no opinion of the Marines begin to associate the Marines with the beauty of this country, and, perhaps, make the connection that these men and women have afforded us the domain over such treasurers, then the Marines become more favorable to America as a whole. Ultimately, the gained favorability in the perception of the American public will lead to increased recruitment.

So,... while the journalist criticizes the placement of the add, whether the journalist knows it or not, judging by her awareness of the brand image, particularly "respect", the ad appears to have been more successful than not.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Richard Dean Eckley, South Royalton, VT — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:54:29 GMT

Oh Allison, you've gone and done it, you've upset Marines, remember "no better friend, no worse enemy."

Anyway it doesn't matter that the commercial felt out of place to you. The men and women who eventually join the Marine Corps are different than everyone else.

Let me tell you a story about the last time I went to a theater. It was nearly empty, and a commercial for the Air Force (high tech equipment and all) and I overheard one of the teenagers ahead of us, "if I were to join the military, it'd be the Air Force, because it's the easiest and you get paid the most." He continued, "the stupid ****s that join the Marines, it's the hardest and you get paid the least."

That kid can never understand what it's like to be a Marine, and unfortunately neither will you Ms. Hinn.

And as for us "stupid" people that joined the Marines? Out of my old infantry platoon, I'm a lawyer, there are two doctors, some ER nurses and several police officers. All professions that take a good deal if intelligence, but more importantly, are professions that, in theory anyway, serve the community to make the world a better, safer, healthier place. That is the attitude of a Marine. It's not about us, it is about our Corps and our community, and what we can do to make it better.

Semper Fi

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Lt Col Steve, March ARB, CA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:56:51 GMT

From your article: "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..."

You know...I first put on my uniform June 25, 1979. I am currently a Lt Col in the USAF and just celebrated my 25th year of service. Why do I tell you this?

Because NOTHING IS CHANGED regarding the basic "risks" of service: I've known all along that I could easily be tasked with a mission where I would give my life (I participate in Libya '86, Panama '89, Desert Storm '91). This was nothing "Surprising" or new.

America is now at war, whether we have a congressionally declared "State of War" or not. And members of the military know this. We accept it as it is our role. Young men and women that choose to join us in guarding our very way of life, our nation, do so with open eyes and hearts. They're not "automatons" with no thought; they're young patriots with ideals and goals and dreams just like I was in 1979.

Yes, I've been shot at. Yes, I've shot back. Yes by the grace of God I've not been harmed. But I've always know that might not be the case.

I think you missed the point of the ad...Marines have a proud heritage as national guardians of the USA; a role they've proudly held longer than any military service of the USA. THey were showing their skills at precise military drill with a backdrop of the very nation they are PROUD to defend.

I think they put it well in a poster once: "This we'll defend!"

Semper Fi Marines! All of us in AF blue honor you!

- AF Pilot

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Andy, NMB, SC — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:10:52 GMT

Allison.....you asked for it, and looks like you got it! No, I am not a Marine....just a very appreciative American! Thanks Marines!!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Bud Larson — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:20:19 GMT

I disagree. I served in the Marine Corps nearly 40 years ago. I have never believed that any recruit "didn't know" what he was getting into. We all knew. I love this clip. Apparently from the responses so do all the other Marines.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Vaughn Rice — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:21:09 GMT

While in the Marines one learns many things. Honor, courage, and the focus on keeping America Free. This Ad does just that.

I may not agree with what some say, but they can say it because we fought then and now to protect that right. Some people just don't get it. Freedom is NOT free. I wish some of these who do not support our troops or the President could have just one day in another country. Then they would understand how BLESSED we are. And it is because of the Marines, Army, Air Force and Navy that we continue to be strong...not wimps. But we may turn into losing our rights if we contine to not fight for our freedom.

Vaughn Rice
Combat Photographer
USMC

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Paul Hackett, Cincinnati, Ohio — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:22:20 GMT

Allison, I think the above comments have introduced you to a culture and brotherhood and yes sisterhood that perhaps you were unaware still exists in America. Obviously the commercial is a metaphor for "where Marines come from," all across America and what we protect, all of America. And while we are not all as young and good looking as the "devil dogs" in the commercial we are still made of the same steel forged at Paris Island, San Diego and Quantico. It's a deep rich sub-culture of America comprised of all ethnicities that is bonded together by self sacrifice and a dedication to something more important than our individual needs and comforts. It is a calling, and we do understand that many don't "get it." Semper Fi.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

The Gunny — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:25:00 GMT

Allison Linn,

You may have some validity to your story, but you misunderstand the target audience of the ad. When I first saw this ad, I was immediately taken back to June 25, 1990. The day I stood on those famed yellow footprints. Also, to other important dates of my Marine Corps career. This ad promotes pride for those who have served, those who are serving, and challenges those who want to serve. Every clime and place, from sea to shining sea... we serve. You don't understand it, because not everyone is meant to be called a Marine...or else everyone would be called a Marine.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Victor A, New Lenox, IL — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:25:32 GMT

SEMPER FI MARINES!!! I loved reading all of these comments, it's no wonder our corps has such a long and distinguished history.

I guess the thing about the article that strikes me the funniest, is the person wrote it, actually signed it. WOW, now that takes guts!

SEMPER FI!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Loiuse Harris, Las Vegas, NV — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:25:55 GMT

I think this story is great! So many people talk about how we need to show American's the turmoil our troops are going through so that we know how much they are giving up for our freedom. But when it comes to recruiting people to put them into these situations, why would we advertise the opposite of this?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:33:09 GMT

Or..., you could go to West Point instead, get your education paid for by the taxpayers, play football at West Point, do really good at playing football, then get excused from serving your Country and play Pro football instead - oh, and get paid millions (PS: You don't have to pay back for any of your FREE education). I don't think you'd catch a Marine doing that...

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Shannon, Texas — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:34:04 GMT

Ms. Linn,

Thank you for your point of view. I am not sure exactly what your point was to writing this column, but whatever it was obviously you have the opinions of many Marines who have served or are serving. Enjoy.

You wrote: '[T]hese 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.'

Marines join for various reasons but what is common to all is a willingness to serve. We serve the citizens of this country and protect their rights with our lives. We don't fear a "messy battlefield." We dissect it.

We give thought to many things as we volunteer our lives. We think of our families, wives, children etc., but like our fore-fathers who founded this country, we also consider what this country stands for, Freedom. Atleast we have the opportunity to choose, unlike other countries where people cannot choose to serve or not, i.e. North Korea.

What we consider more than any messy battlefield is our own spoiled, child-like, liberal citizens who attempt to discredit and humiliate the few that protect their rights to have a voice.

A simple 'Thank you' will do.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Proud Wife of a Jarhead — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:41:35 GMT

You are an idiot. I am a proud wife of a Marine... Do you not get it because you were too excited about your stupid movie about some stupid women?? The commercial represents THE MARINE CORPS. That they protect what makes America the best... They shot the Silent Drill Team in all those places because they represent America... And who cares what it cost its none of your business... I can’t believe you would think that writing this article was okay... When people join the Marine Corp or marry into the Marine Corp you think about it way before you sign up... You think about what your life is going to be like.. People like you need to spend a day in the Marine Corp to get the full effect of a REAL family... the best family EVER...

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

J.C.Bing, NY — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:44:49 GMT

To Cpl Stuey,
'Every Marine is issued a set of dress blues'

When did they start giving them away, I was a MSG and had to earn mine, If you didn't earn them you could
buy them.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Alex, VA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:58:36 GMT

I think I've seen it and I thought it captured the aura of the Marines. It is certainly more on target than that "dungeons and dragons" thing they ran in the 90s. When that one ended everyone in the theater looked at each other and said, "Huh? Marines are not fairy tale characters!"

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Susan, Austin, Texas — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 22:01:13 GMT

Okay, I'm one of those "liberals" that so many of the other posters are slamming and I didn't approve of the current war (although I did the 1st Iraq war and Afganistan), but I still have to disagree with you.

I just watched the commercial and I got chills. I think that the Marine Corp and all our other branches of the military should be extremely proud of serving their country and I think that this commercial shows just that. Every soldier knows when they join that they will be asked to risk their lives. That is a given and does not need to be shown. But the military also gives a lot of young boys the chance to become strong, proud men.

I wish they didn't have to fight and die in this war and I do everything I can to lobby my government to bring them home soon and safely, but we should give them every bit of support and respect that we can. I think that this commercial shows that.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Cheryl Nizio, Rio Rancho, NM — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 22:01:53 GMT

I am a PROUD "BLUE STAR MOTHER OF AMERICA" of a U.S. MARINE serving in Japan at this time. I also have two step-sons serving in the U.S. Army, one I might add is on the Wounded War Program, wounded in Iraq. I am PROUD of each and everyone of them and all of OUR sons and daughters who have stepped forward to defend our country and our way of life. When I see this commercial I see my sons and your sons and your daughters and it still brings tears to my eyes.
They serve so that people like you can have the right to your opinion. If you don't get the meaning behind this fabulous commercial and others like it, I'll pray that your son or your daughter won't have to face the tradegies and pain that my sons have faced and will continue to face as they return to this great country of the USA to heal.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Ron, Portland, Oregon — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 22:21:05 GMT

To begin with, I am NOT an ex-Marine. No axe to grind. Spending the better part of an hour reading the comments above has shown two significant things: One, you obviously don't realize how many Marines read your stuff, and two, that you could have said the same things about dog-catchers, cops, firemen, waitresses, or politicians and gotten similar reaction; who the hell are you to criticize what I or anyone chooses to do? You simply don't question people's desire or motivation. Are there people who will make a sudden and possibly rash decision to join the Marines after seeing that film? Sure. Will some of them get killed? Possibly. But people make choices about their lives based on their desires, mental images of themselves, their immediate life situations, to name but a few. Just as you can get killed being a Marine; you can get killed being a trooper in a Highway Patrol. Why single out anyone then who chooses - for WHATEVER reason - to put their very existence on this planet in jeopardy?
Finally, using the juxtaposition of beautifully filmed, dedicated, no-nonsense Marines, to an air-headed, fashion-is-SO-important, nothing movie couldn't have been a worse place from which to base your article. Would you have written the same thing had you seen that commercial just prior to (or perhaps just after)seeing "Saving Private Ryan"? Really poor choice of a venue on your part. I also sensed an undercurrent in your article. I felt you were somehow trying to say "I went to see a brain-candy movie and they jerked me into reality and made me think." The result appears to be a well-written, but ill-chosen and poorly directed pout.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Andy B. — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 22:36:33 GMT

As a gay man I think that the are directly targeting the 'don't ask don't tell' demographic to a 'T'.

Either that or they're letting the disgruntled boyfriends who were dragged to the movies to see SITC that there is a way out...

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Grateful for Marines, Naples, FL — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 22:53:05 GMT

It is because of Marines that people are able to sit and enjoy a "lightminded" & "Superficial" night at the movies that portrays a life of freedom & promiscuous luxury that is only provided by those willing to serve our country and maintain our way of life. Marines and other Armed Forces give us the luxury of the tuffest decision we face on the weekend is which restaurant to dine at and which movie to see, rather than where the next mass casualties will occur, and if we will have enough food and water to survive. How about a moment of silence and appreciation for our service Men and Women???

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

DFW Marine — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:01:53 GMT

This ad has broad distribution. It would be far more costly to cherry-pick individual movie titles than to negotiate a packaged deal with the distributor. Of course there will be demographic misses, but you only pay for your target eyeballs. The fact that some NY 30-40 women got a bit of exposure to a culture and ethos so thoroughly foreign to them is merely a side-benefit thrown in for free.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Another Marine — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:08:47 GMT

As a Marine myself, I'll be nice to Allison. Allison, it doesn't matter whether you get it. Don't even worry about it, sit there and enjoy it. Realize though that every single comment has indicated that you have missed the point. Maybe the point isn't intended for you? But, one point that you should take to heart is as long as it's working, you and the rest of the theater audience doesn't have to worry about a draft. So just relax and don't invest too much thought on the commercial.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Adam, Phoenix AZ — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:15:53 GMT

Before I say anything else, let me first comment on the ad itself. It's a great ad, and I think everyone understands that signing up to be a Marine is to place your own life under great risk to serve our country. Ads like this are wonderful examples of symbolism and make you think about what it means to be an American - much more than the Army's typical "look at our technology, look at our benefits" do. So, I disagree with Ms. Linn's opinion on this topic.

At the same time, I do see where she's coming from, and why the ad struck her as unusual. During a time of war, this ad is very disjointed from the harsh realities of everyday life in the service. I don't see the problem with that, but she does.

What bothers me is the accusations of all the current and former Marines and family of Marines who have taken to the namecalling and attacking of the writer. It's classless - she has a different opinion and has every right to express it. She did it in a respectful and honorable way, even if you don't like what was said. How dare you all assume she doesn't understand, doesn't care about our country, or is a self-serving person who doesn't love the USA or want to help people. For all we know, her family has served. For all we know, she's volunteering her time in the community. Point is, we have no idea who she is as a person or what she does, and to assume that she hates the Marines and has no respect for the military is absurd.

You're Marines. We hear your talk of pride, honor, duty, and respect - act like it.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Proud Marine Wife — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:20:21 GMT

Allison,

I have to say that while you wrote that you mean no disrespect to the Marines, the article seems to imply that the Corps is trying to "trick" people into joining. What the commercial means to emphasize is that the men and women who serve in the Marines are constantly protecting our most treasured American landmarks i.e. they are contantly protecting all of us. Their sacrifice means that you are able to sit in a comfotable, air conditioned theater and watch the Sex and the City Movie while they are in Iraq or Afghanistan just hoping that they will live through the day.
Furthermore, anyone who signs up for the Marine Corps and thinks that it's going to be easy and glamorous should think again. Anytime you sign up for any kind of military service you are accepting the fact that you will be going into combat. It takes hard work to earn the title of Marine, ad that is why their slogan is "The few, the Proud.."

Seper Fi

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Army Wife — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:23:57 GMT

Well... am I dumb to assume that someone who would feel motivated to enlist into the USMC might already know that we are at war? I don't mean to be disrespectful either, but I hate it when you people feel that those who serve the military are too dumb to understand the potential dangers that they may encounter by serving and protecting our country. Stop treating service members with pity and start respecting them, they are making a sacrifice that you are to afraid to make yourself.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Son of a Marine — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:24:47 GMT

Well Ms. Linn, I bet you stopped reading these comments after only a few, and I agree with nearly all, especially those Marines who have replied. One thing that hasn't been mentioned, unless I missed something, is that the Marines have better marketing than all the other services combined. They look the best, they advertise the best, the portray their brothers and sisters in arms the best, the Marines simply are, the best. To me this was yet another example of great marketing, don't ever forget that the Marine Corp and all other military services are a business too, and for the Marine Corp to continually push their TRADEMARK even to audiances who may not be directly on point is not just a privilege, it is a right.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mike, Missouri — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:29:40 GMT

Most of these responses have already covered it well. It's quite obvious that Allison Linn doesn't have a clue about the Marines or the military for that matter, doesn't grasp any of the positive aspects of patriotism, or didn't bother to think before she wrote the article.

She's probably grown up under the heavy influences of our modern society/pop culture that seemingly places little real value on things like honor, courage, commitment, and sacrifice. I fear the U.S. is going the way of the Euroweenies. They have the attitude of: It's all about me, there's nothing worth fighting for, and I need government to by my mommy and take care of me. God help us if we become like them!

Although, I spend a fair amount of time at the military blogs and it does ease that fear. What our military does and how they do it is inspiring to say the least.

I too am a former Sgt. of the Marines. Semper Fi!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Gunny G — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:38:20 GMT

The writer of this article has clearly missed the message of the advertisement however, her view point doesn't surprise me one bit. Her 'hate the military' view point is the norm in her circles. There are actually a couple of messages in the commercial and anyone with more than the author's shallow thinking can see it. It's message is that Marines (along with other services of course) defend this beautiful country from Time Square, Tennessee, Philadelphia, Colorado, Kansas, San Francisco (all places this commercial was shot). I've been in the Corps 14 years and know Marines from each of these places as well. The Marine Corps had an poster ad in the 70's that said "We don't promise you a rose garden" and had a picture of a Drill Instructor chewing some butt. The Marine Corps still doesn't promise a rose garden. We promise you the opportunity to protect your country, physical challenge, opportunities to lead men and women, travel and adventure and much much more.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Kris Kelly, San Diego, CA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:45:37 GMT

Hey everyone - I served in the navy for 11 years - and now I'm in business; I completely "get" what the author was saying.

Why is the Marine Corps targeting the "Sexy & The City" audience? Why are they selling ice to eskimos - ok?

It's not an act of ignorance - or of disputing the reason people served in The Corps - it's asking...what is the most advantageous use of Marine Corps advertizing dollars...and what's the best placement for this ad?

Why not...during Race Car Events...Indy 500, etc, etc, etc,...where virile, patriotic young men (and women) will be interested and would actually act upon this ad...and seriously consider joining the Marine Corps?

THAT is what I believe...the focus of this article...is all about.

Kris
San Diego
11 Year Navy (Submarine) Veteran

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

HerkCO — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:46:21 GMT

Allison (clueless, really),
Your msnbc world is in a different universe than the brave young men in the film and who made the posts above this. You will never get it, its too late.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Howard Lamothe, Rio Vista, CA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:55:33 GMT

Let's see Sex and the City, Allison Linn, superficial, self centered people who would never make a sacrifice for their country on one hand....
And the USMC on the other...
Makes you proud to see these young men and women in this ad.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jay, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:01:54 GMT

Guess you wanted to see the image that your network so strongly promotes: that defending your country is a bad thing that is somehow a ridiculous choice, that removing a dictator and showing the way to government by some sort of self-rule is better than tyranny, that freedom's cost is sometimes paid in blood.

PLEASE DO US ALL A FAVOR: Stick to commenting about things about which you can pretend -- at least -- to know something worth sharing.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Laurie — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:03:01 GMT

This commercial was beautiful and made my heart swell with pride. Those brave, committed young men, (and women) are willing to serve our country, "from sea to shining sea" I am more thankful for what they do than I can express. I don't think anyone is so naive anymore to think that when you join the military you will be on vacation. We are all aware of the state of the world and the dangers within. They are not forced to complete bootcamp if they change their minds and in fact, it is quite possible they will be dropped if they can't live up to the high standards of the Marine Corp. So, yes, it was a beautiful commercial that should make every American proud and thankful for those who are willing to give their all! Thank you Marine Corp, Army, Air Force, and Navy!!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jason Kolodziejski — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:39:16 GMT

I'm not a marine, but I love my country. I haven't served in the military and I'm 34 years old. Watching this commerical gave me the chills. It is moving. Thanks to all of our troops and come home safe.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

John Kantor — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:53:35 GMT

Only a sick society sees its military as either an anachronism or just another employment option. There should be mandatory military service for everyone.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Army Officer in Korea — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:58:03 GMT

I am an Army Officer stationed in Korea and see this ad all the time on AFN. Everytime I see it, I am proud that I am serving our country. Maybe those of you who have enough free time to sit through the Sex in the City movie will be reminded that many men and women are out there serving our country while you are sitting back enjoying popcorn and drink. I think it is an excellent ad and reminder that we serve to protect the freedoms of the United States of America.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Joe Marine — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:58:53 GMT

I have to say that you ALLISON have fallen off of your journalistic rocker. I am a Marine and thing you don't have a clue what your talking about. Maybe the ad was there to say that " you are about to see a great movie and here are the guys that make it safe for you to sit here stuffing your face, oh and not to mention have the nerve to in fact use you first ammendment right to write garbage." Did you think of that in yor confusion about the placement or nature of the ad. I have been an avid reader of MSN's comment stories but have never commented but what you have written has struck a nerve with me and as I read a number of other pepole as well. I think you should have your privilege stripped until you get your head out of your... (I'm sure in your vast thought process you can figure out the rest.) WHAT AN IDIOT!!!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Geoffrey — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:07:35 GMT

Allison Linn I guess you've got a fair bit of shouting at by others. I think you deserve it. You're one of those who dont deserve to be free. You have a mental picture in your mind, and if something doesnt go according to it, then you think its wrong. Thats not how the world works. Get a life and go find another job.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

No — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:13:00 GMT

wow she just got schooled hard core by the core lol!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Morgan, Charlotte, NC — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:17:04 GMT

I think some people are way too offended and missed the question she was asking. This wasn't dogging the Marines. I've got a brother, and two uncles who have served in the Marines for years and I tell you this in the interest of full disclosure. I think what may have been questions is this: with the enlistment in the Armed Services so low, with our enlisted troops serving so many repeat tours would and ad such as this really bring in new recruits? Wouldn't the people who would really full the pull of this ad be enlisted already? Don't the Marines need a new angle with which to connect with people...the people who haven't already enlisted?

Maybe that was what she was saying.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jose Velez — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:17:44 GMT

Will not waste my breath commenting! Raise a glass to all those that served and continue to serve!

Semper Fi - GYSGT USMC RETIRED

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Chris Paris, Mechanicsville, VA — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:23:39 GMT

Honorable Allison Linn,
I served. No, the Marine Corps is not for everybody. Those men in that commercial represent what the Marine Corps is promising everyone: hard work. Not always nice work. I have watched the silent drill team practice those same moves that you found captivating in the commercial. Try to imagine practicing those movements for 8 to 10 hours, every day, for months. Most of the young people who see that commercial will realize the implications, most of them will make a mental note "not for me". But a few will see that and say "I can do it". This is the raw material that the USMC forges into Marines. Please, see a recruiter, sign yourself up, and enjoy the improvement.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Melissa H., Staunton, IL — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:26:25 GMT

I don't see anything wrong with it i mean come on my husband is in the marines and even he doesn't see anything worng. Heck every branch of the military does ads for tv and movies. they are only saying this because the marines is the most respected branch in the military they've never said anything about the armys ad's and those are starting to get old...

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Laura Massey, Salisbury, NC — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:29:15 GMT

As I read this article and many others of the unpatriotism of this country, I am appauled. I am a mother of a female marine getting ready to deploy to Iraq, who I have not seen since August 07 due to her being station in Okinawa, Japan, and a sister to a vet marine. I proudly display my support to our troops and to my country. The corp is the elite branch of our military, that truly believes in protecting our freedoms, the freedom to voice our opinions, no matter how inane it may be. We should be trying to say what good we have to be thankful for than trashing out country/ our military. These men and women proudly serve our country and would not have changed the decision they had made. Semperfi to all of you!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

David Battle, MSgt Ret — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:36:59 GMT

Allison

It is obvious that you is like so many members of the media. You support the troops, but you look for every opportunity to critize the troops. We love this country and we are willing to give our life to keep this country. Even if it means we have to put up with people like YOU.

Semper Fi and God Bless the United States of America

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Kendra Vaugh, Colorado Springs, Colorado — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:39:54 GMT

The ad is exactly what an ad for the USMC should be. It shows the strength and determination of our Marines and it shows the places that they protect with their service. I don't know what more you want from this commercial. In a world where the War on Terrorism is talked about, argued about, and read about on a daily basis the brave men and women who already do serve and those who are considering it hardly need to be reminded of the price they might pay. But the commericial is showing them just what they are risking their lives to protect. The ad shows them something greater than themselves that is worth the risk. How can that be wrong?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Bob Perrow, Austin, Texas — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:49:09 GMT

Allison,

Do you feel like you have opened a can of worms that you cannot close? Well, I suppose you have. I am a USMC Dad, and I take great pride in Corps. And when some airhead insults it, I get kinda riled. (That's "dangerous" for all you non-Texans.)

Instead of knocking the Corps, try saying a prayer for our troops next time you see a Marine sticker on the back of a car. You'll be joining another group of elite when you do so.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mike Rogers, Winston-Salem, NC — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:59:25 GMT

I found the article to be a great example of what the media really thinks about the men and women who serve our country in the armed forces. Nothing but a bunch of yawhoos who could not possibly do anything else! BS! Both of my sons (idenitcal twins) joined the Marines before graduation from High School. They had scholarships for both athletics and academics to several colleges and scored very high on both the SAT and ACT's. They wanted to do something to serve and protect our country after 9/11. They both were angry that something like that could happen. They wanted to make a difference. They wanted to be the best. If ever you get the opportunity to attend a USMC graduation ceremony, you will see the future of our country and what type of people we as a country are. Or attend any military graduation for that matter and talk to the men and women who have joined. You can not help but come away with awe and pride. The Marine commerical only reinforces what we as a nation have forgotten; Duty, Honor, Loyalty, Service and Sacrifice. From a Marine Father.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Manuel — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:04:47 GMT

To the writer,

Just wanted to tell you one thing.FREEDOM IS ISN'T FREE.You are not a true american, if you dont like the marines dont go to the movies and dont wach TV

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Melanie, A Proud Former Woman Marine, Broomfield, CO — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:14:50 GMT

Absolutely, without a doubt the most outrageous piece of drivel I have had the displeasure to read! I was thrilled when I saw "America's Marines." I knew damned well what I was getting into when I put my feet on those yellow foot prints. Did I need the promise of a college education? NO. I already had a bachelors AND a masters degree. The proudest day of my life was EARNING the Eagle, Globe and Anchor on graduation day. How truly sad it is that the writer is so shallow that she cannot understand what "Honor, Courage and Commitment," truly means. I challenge her to put her Manolo Blahniked feet on the yellow footprints!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Johnny Civilian, Beverly Hills, Cali — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:19:08 GMT

I'm fired up to join the USMC. The ad is cool, shows some of the many aspects of the Marine Corp. The more of us that join now the less pressure on the Troops that are over there helping millions of Iraqis to be safe and Free. I want to get over there and see firsthand and help firsthand. Saddam Hussein was torturing people to death and used weapons of mass destruction on Kurdish men women, and children. The Marines and the other Branches along with Allies put a stop to him, now we have to keep a presence there to ensure that Iraqis don't have to worry about being locked up in torture facilities for saying the wrong thing. U.S. stopped Saddam, now we must make certain he is not replaced. Marines always raise the bar, they're the best fighters, and they'll fight to the death for America. They are perfectionists, since they're Americans they are strong on compassion and do alot of good things that don't showup in the news much at all. I think a military draft is in order, I'm 100% certain that a draft would be ultra good for America. The more people that we have had in the Service the better the population we will have. More disciplined, wise, and Patriotic. It will expedite our current conflicts and make us safer from future conflicts. Just enact the draft Mr. President, and Congress, because I said so.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Beryl Jay Hull, Emmetsburg, Iowa — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:20:53 GMT

40 years ago today my "boot camp bunkie" was KIA in Leatherneck Square, just below the DMZ in Vietnam. I
watched the commercial with tears streaming down my cheeks....then was cheered by what the blogs had to say. Semper Fi.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jak, Saint Louis, MO — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:24:42 GMT

Ms. Linn, perhaps the numbers of posts here provide some understanding of what it is to be a Marine. The Corps is not for everyone and we would not have any other way.
Semper Fi

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

One of the few — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:37:57 GMT

I am currently a Marine and I am definitely proud to be one. Although the publicity we get may not always be the publicity we want. There are many Marines that have died protecting the rights for journalist to go over seas and publicize all the negative things we do. Where are the front page headlines of Marines receiving some of our nation’s greatest honors and awards for the things they have done. Marines have been known to do amazing things and ask for nothing in return. All I ask is why we have people here criticizing our actions when they didn’t have the courage to do what we are doing.
The fact is we get the job done and we do it fast. So what else do you want from us?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Britt Lindley, Green Bay WI — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:38:48 GMT

The Marine Corps motto "The few, the proud" is so very true. Thank you for again proving that statement. Being a Marine is something few do, but yet something all that do are extremely proud of. I would not expect you or anyone who has never been a Marine to truly get it. My only hope is that you take away a small piece of the same pride I have in being a Marine! Semper Fi

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Tim Sonoma, California — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:42:59 GMT

According to her bio, Allison Linn writes about consumer issues, personal finance and advertising. before that she mainly covered Microsoft for AP.

And now you're an expert on the USMC? Courage? Commitment? Patiotism?

Or maybe just a wanna be movie critic?

Yes, there is a huge chasm between those who have proven themselves, and the self indulgent stars of Sex and the City. (and unfortunately, much of America.)

A gulf you'll never ever begin to understand.

Perhaps the Marines were trying to reach a few good men & women in the movie audience by showing them that chasm and challenging them to cross it.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Zac Jacobson, Denver Colorado — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:46:42 GMT

In addition to all the other posted comments about this article's misunderstanding of the ad and the message, I would add that this piece is very naive about the nature of advertising and brand management in general.

The Marine Corps doesn't do a spot like this for the sole and limited purpose of getting 18-22 year olds to enlist. The reason for including this ad in a movie like "Sex and the City" is to fulfill a larger purpose of keeping the Marine Corps relevant and the image positive in the community as a whole. All Americans - and all people in the world for that matter - have a need to understand the Marine Corps, its mission, and how it contributes. This is accomplished through a comprehensive public relations campaign that addresses brand and message in general and specific ways to diverse demographics in the ways that most appeal to them.

Understanding this point, the add itself seems well placed and well constructed to deliver on this objective.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jon Weise — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:47:14 GMT

Let Me ask. How will this country sustain the funds to keep our monuments, our great damns, the beauty of this land from falling apart if we stay in a conflict that is so boviously driven by blurry motives. As i cut back on groceries to fill up my tank while waiting for that next raise to keep my head above water, i wonder, maybe dying for my country is better than living in it.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

ROB PALLME, Pensacola Florida — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:48:48 GMT

As a Navy guy in the "Gator" Fleet. I came to know Marines as rather disheveled cargo. I later years I became impressed that most of the sucessful and influential men I know are ex-marines. A lot to be said for the old "Semper Fi's"

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Lcpl C.E. Johnson Pensacola FL — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:52:06 GMT

I served Proudly from 1974-1977. Like my Father and Brother before me i chose to follow thier footsteps. The Marine Corps is one of the best branches of any military in the world. Just looking at that ad (when I was at the movies) brought back so much pride to know that I was and still AM a MARINE. "GODS SPEED TO ALL MY BROTHERS IN HARMS WAY" Bring them ALL home Mr.President!!!!!!
Semper Fi

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Another Marine, Washington DC — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:54:25 GMT

Oh, for goodness sake! After acknowledging how stirring and patriotic and beutiful the ad was, all the author did was question whether it would have the intended effect of getting people in the audience of "Sex and the City" to join the Marines. Surely that's a legitimate question for a journalist (or a taxpayer) to ask.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Marine Wife, Chattanooga, TN — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 03:23:50 GMT

Having seen Marine ads for years and thought they were all very good, this one has to be the best. It never fails to inspire respect and gratitude for those who wear that uniform. My husband is a former Marine who has since earned several degrees who has distinguished himself in his post-Marine career, but he will be the first to tell anyone that what he is most proud of is having achieved the title of U. S. Marine.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Dana Condron, Parsonsburg, MD — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 03:28:34 GMT

As a Marine who served in Operation Desert Storm I can not put into words how moved I was when I first viewed "America's Marines." It made we want to reenlist and still does. I can understand the author's point of view. What needs to be understood is that the Marines appeal to a segment of the citizenship who in simple terms want to serve for the greater good and to be among the best. People who do not begin to think of the consequences of death but instead the merits of victory. This is what drove me to be a "walk-in," a person who goes to the recruiter's office without any coercion. A person either has this desire or they do not. Those that do are likely to join the Marines, the ones that do not wonder why someone would do such a thing. I would be signing the paperwork right now if I were eighteen years old again. Semper Fi!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

WP, Milwaukee, WI — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 03:29:57 GMT

"From the halls of montezuma, to the shores of Sex and the City, we fight our countries battles, in the air on land in the movie'ees."

The commercial is just a friendly reminder that we are there watching over you while you sit and eat popcorn and live vicariously through those on the big screen.

Semper Fi

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Texas — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 03:33:49 GMT

I (early-thirties - wife and mom) would much rather watch 5 hours of something with the beauty, grace, honor, dignity, pride and courage of American Marines, than 5 minutes of Sex & the City!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Michelle, OKC — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 03:42:15 GMT

Allison,
Another former Marine here, and a woman at that. I happen to know the Sergeant Major of training at Parris Island and would be happy to call her to set you up for the toughest, most painful time of your life. Sweetie, leave your prada, dior and calvin at home... leave your blowdryer, makeup and perfume... leave your whiny entitled attitude... leave your comfortable bed, cell phone and 50" plasma tv... leave your freedom to choose what you eat, where you go, even reading crappy articles on the internet... My guess is that you wouldn't make it a day, let alone a week, or ever better a year in Afganistan, Iraq or anywhere else you VOLUNTEER to go. Lady, you need to get a grip and perhaps some perspective by doing some community service at a military hospital and SEE what these men and women are doing for you-- that they are willing to lose arms and legs, even lives protecting this country and all the good bad and ugly that goes with it. You truly have no idea what it means to wear that uniform, and until you go through 13 weeks of boot camp, don't pretend to know anything about that uniform.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Michael Lamb, Columbus, Ohio — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 03:47:34 GMT

Let's face it, the job of the American Military is war. No service would recruit if it advertised an "in your face" message of "it's kill, or be killed." Each service has it's own way to get across the message of that "sense of pride and accomplishment" you will have from joining their branch of service. The Army is now using "Army Strong" to emphasize how tough you will be, the Marines use the pride of their traditions and accomplishments (and you have to admit their dress blues are pretty sharp!) and down the line. It's all marketing, targeting young men and women who want some accomplishment to be proud of. It seems to work. Now I'm a retired "doggie" (US Army) but I'm very proud of my service and would recommend any branch of service to a young person who needed some discipline and direction in his/her life. If my grandson chooses the Marines, I will give him a salute and hearty "Semper Fi!" as I do to all my Corps brothers in your audience!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

A Marine — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 03:49:06 GMT

First the lousy and pathetic Berkeley city council and now this....

I can't believe the US Marine Corps and its Marines --people who "volunteer" out of their own volition and free will join this wordly reknown elite branch of the US Armed Forces --- is being attacked again by another extremist liberal left wing commentator.

When will this all end? Why don't you guys just say "thank you" next time you see a US Marine and go on your selfishly decrepit ways.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Clint, Mesa, Arizona — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 04:06:09 GMT

Ms. Linn --

Before publishing on a subject about which you know little or nothing, have your work reviewed by several who are well versed in the subject. As a Ph.D. in psychology and a former Marine I understand that this is a cardinal rule in research and publishing. Your comments only give insight into your ignorance of the Marine Corps and those who choose to serve in it. They clearly state you believe those who choose to serve are like you. Based on what you have shown of yourself here, they are nothing like you. The fact that your do not understand this ad does not indicate there is anything wrong or misplaced with it. As you can see from the comments you have received, from many Marines and former Marines, the ad is effective, and it is your comments and your willingness to demonstrate your lack of understanding that is misplaced.

Semper Fi.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Roman Diaz — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 04:47:04 GMT

seems most people find this article an attack on the corps. it's an observation of an advertisement.

the author's opinion and ability to express it in a free thinking society is what the armed forces are protecting... in theory. so why are so many marines and former marines attacking this article? if you don't want people having opinions, don't join the army, air force, or navy. maybe, conduct yourselves in a military manner and quietly respect the author's right to be wrong.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Dave E., Melbourne FL — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 05:02:37 GMT

Allison Linn, think for a minute about the very real threats to our society and way of life; past - present - and future. Think about how fortunate we are to have young men and women step forward and serve and protect our country in the armed services; past - present - and future.
You say: "America’s Marines, is lovely, but its beauty risks being disingenuous". You are a critic and your perspective escapes me. America's beauty in its people and its breadth is what we serve to protect.
Theodore Roosevelt had this to say about critics and (I believe) the type of men and women who become Marines:
"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

clarence c, San Antonio,TX — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 05:30:41 GMT

The Corps has a target market age group. The fact that someone who is not inclined to join should not exclude them from the ad campaign. Raised as a liberal anti-war atheist I joined the Corps to look at the other side. I served in the Corps for 8 yrs, served as a cop for 20 yrs and became a follower of Christ. During this time I also earned several college degrees including a J.D. In the last 30yrs I learned that few people have the true metal to do what sometimes has to be done. When the time comes to act only the quick, skilled and resolute will prevail. Experience has taught the Corps that these people of character can be found among every social walk of life. While the John Wayne personna prevails, a review of Medal of Honor recipients would disprove this image. Defense of this country is deadly serious business whether it is law enforcement or military service. Honor, integrity, sound moral and religious values are the basis from which decisions are made...especially split second decisions. A selfless commitment to duty along with the aforementioned attributes is what this country needs more of in its leaders. The United States Marine Corps has always strived to exemplify these characteristics. The ad is a fine representation of the Corps. Semper Fi Once a Marine...

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Alex, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 06:26:19 GMT

Great article. I agree with everything the author said about this commercialized piece of propaganda. The commercial simply serves to convince the uninformed, typical, ignorant American citizen that any action the Marine Corps engages in is justified. The commercial caters to those who are ignorant of the atrocities the state committs, and continues to hide the Marine Corps behind a facade of false pride.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Lurch — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 09:16:19 GMT

Well mister privileged Daddy and Momma sent me to college to push the wrong buttons, boy did you pick the wrong one. Dress Blues were my choice for picking a carrer to get me into college. But along the way something happened, HORROR DUTY PRIDE. Not just in country but in me. Thank God and Corp for all who served and gave you the job of a bad freaking opinion.
Someones children has to do it, not yours or you for that matter, but when it hits the fan who are you going to call? The MARINES! and not that dipolma hanging on the wall. Next time you have to write anything about MARINES. Do it from a fighting hole or after you return from the feild. If you are so lucking. Any one who goes into the service knows its not a movie. Its the hardest job they will ever do but has to be done for COUNTRY OORAH!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Henry A. Pictor, Batesville, IN — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 12:10:37 GMT

WOW! I hope the author reads the comments. The commercial reinforces my pride in having served my country as a Marine.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

T. Patillo — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 12:50:24 GMT

I'm not a Marine. I've never served in the Military. I don't have any family members that I know of that are Marines. I have friends that have served in other branches of the military but I know no Marines. Having acknowledged all of that...this is one of my favorite commercials. Its actually been running on TV for quite some time now. Allison, the fact that your first exposure to it interrupted your anticipation of "Sex and the City", says more about you than it does about the United States Marines. You couldn't be more wrong if you tried.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

CWO4 Michael Doyle, USMC (Ret'd) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:13:58 GMT

Marines are different - that is why there are so damned few of us. But then our nation has never needed but "a few Marines."

The commericial is but the first in a sequence of events that cull those few capable of being Marines from the larger U.S. population. Everything about the Marine Corps recruiting and initial training processes is about getting those few individuals capable of becoming Marines -- physically, intellectually and emotionally.

If you don't get the commercial, no hard feelings, thanks for watching.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Vernon Richards, Marion, NC — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:17:19 GMT

I challenge you to take three days out of your life and career, visit MCRD Paris Island, SC, Camp LeJuene, NC, and Iraq. Walk in the boots (how ever brief and temperary) of these people who perform this service for you. Honestly I can only think of two two kinds of people who really truely understand and know what Marines are really about, THE MARINES AND THOSE WHO CHOSE TO BE OUR NATION'S ENEMY!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Iraqi1 — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:21:04 GMT

The author writes, "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" and implies here that since this is such a wonderful place someone must want to join the Marines to protect all its greatness. Well is it me or is this a country full of mentally retarded people? Yes the country is beautiful but there is nothing to protect! No one ahs invaded nor planned to invade nor watns to invade the u.s. For those of you that have been in a slumber for the past decade it is the u.s. and its beloved marines that are doing all the invading and so I believe it is Afghanistan and Iraq that need to have commericals saying come and defend your country. And as for the u.s., just be honest, the commercials should say come join the marines, especially if you are poor and underserved so you are desperate and we will send you acorss the ocean to die and no one will care because the rich will be safe while the poor rushing to an early grave. We will send you to invade nations and kill millins of innocent people because we want their oil and we want geopolitical domination. So cut to the chase people, you are not defending a darn thing, you are taking AWAY others freedoms and invading and murdering. Shame on you, and shame on the author for being such a scared little puppy making sure not to "offend anyone" when you have the power of journalism at your disposal. you coward.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Julie W. — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:52:06 GMT

Allison, I would like to know your response to all the feedback. Do you still feel like the ad was misguided? Or do you feel you were misunderstood? Do you still feel violated that you had to wonder about the Marines all during your SITC movie? Please, do tell.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

G. Long, Dallas, TX — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:53:04 GMT

It's nothing but a ploy to get people. Look at us, check out the places you think you are going to see. What they won't tell you is, join us, get trapped (stop loss policy), go fight with little to no rewards and unkept promises by this administraion.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Claire McGraedy, Havelock, NC — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:55:04 GMT

As a daughter of a career Marine and the mother of a soldier currently in Iraq, I thought I needed to make a comment but apparently not. So many have already said it for me. Thank you! Semper Fi and God Bless Our Troops - all of them!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Sharon Drahn, Temple, TX — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 14:10:52 GMT

You obviously missed the point of the Marine Corps ad. Curiously, I wonder if you had taken the time to take a poll of any sisterhood which included mothers, wives or sisters of a Marine, I am certain they
could have explained to you what the Marine Corps commercial means and what it should mean to you.

As far as your comment:
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.

Miss Linn, the Marine Corps only deals in reality. There is no contradiction in the Marine Corps. The United States of America, the beauty, freedom and sacrifice have been embraced by all who wear
the uniform. Those who see a fellow Marine, whether in battle or in blues, big screen or nightly news see a brother and themselves.

As a wife of a Marine who served in Viet Nam and USMC recruiter, as an aunt and mother-in-law to Marines, there is never a time in my life that I am not proud of the Marine Corps.
When Marines everywhere earn the right to wear the eagle, globe and anchor, they are fully aware of their reality and prepared to protect yours. I don’t think pandering ever enters their mind.

Do you even know a Marine? If not, find a mother or wife of a Marine and see if the commercial turned her off - she’ll probably let you in on her reality, should you choose to listen.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

A Retired Marine — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 14:15:37 GMT

I respect the Marines I respect all Services, but everyone lost the point, they do not protect us, they protect the US govermentt, as to the corporations that run it, they fight to have a Mcdonalds in irak, Chilli's in qatar, Walt mart in Vitnam, look around countless death, and we are back in Vitnam and other places. Wake up america we are all about the money, nothing more nothing less, and if someone can tell me otherwise please first look around you and make me be wrong. PS: I serve in the Marines as everyone else in this post has.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Beckett Hamilton, Twin Falls, Idaho — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 14:43:10 GMT

When this ad showed in the previews of Sex in the City here in Twin Falls, Idaho, more than half of the women in the theater, including my daughter and myself, stood up out of the seats in respect for the men and women in the Marine Corps. Maybe it's only in the rural areas of our country that these values and sacrifices mean more than "the featured attraction". I don't know. If all you can see in this moving piece is negative, stick with your inane fluff and leave comments and opinions like this at the door. It's neither needed nor appreciated.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jason, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:04:00 GMT

As a marketing executive I found Allison Linn's commentary interesting. What I found shocking was the hostility with which she was attacked my mostly people serving or who have served in the military. She NEVER criticized military folks! I think a lot of you guys (and women) have serious anger issues and responded without even thinking. While you project an image of strength, courage and honor, you are likely overcompensating for feelings of inferiority that you had growing up.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mike Kupec — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:12:14 GMT

A Marine should be a role model for our younger generation. Having the Marine Corp sponser the AD in a film preview "SEX AND THE CITY: demonstrates weakness and theoretically tells the youngster that sex is O.K. It suggests that Marines are weak, instead of being STRONG.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Elliott, San Diego — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:29:01 GMT

If you want reality, try "Saving Private Ryan". Remember the Veterans walking out of that film because the opening scene was bringing up repressed memories?

Or, if you really want to understand, go read "Jarhead" by Anthony Swofford. Then maybe you'll understand that those who join the Corps worship "Full Metal Jacket" and "Apocalypse Now". We Marines know what is in store for us.

Leave a beautiful commercial where it belongs; softening the hearts of over-protective mothers everywhere!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Lisa, Idaho — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:34:02 GMT

Honestly - where are you coming from here? The commercial is very well done. It's really too bad that all branches of the military fight for our freedoms that give you the right to negatively voice your opinions about them. If only the really patriotic citizens were allowed to live in this great country.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

USMC Wife, Quantico, VA — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:43:25 GMT

As a proud wife of US Marine, when I saw this commercial while waiting to see "Sex in the City", I got goose bumps. It reminded me that my husband protects our country and keeps safe everything that is beautiful about it (as seen in the commercial). I may be partial to Marines since I am married to one, but without the Marines who is going to win the war? And remind me again how long did we have a presence in Germany after WWII? That’s right 40 years!!! I don't understand why people are not supporting the Marines that have been serving their country in war for 5 years. We are doing good things there, not just fighting.

It takes a very proud, strong, and dedicated man to decide to join the Marine Corps and those men should be applauded for their decision not criticized.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Rod Sexton, Houston, TX — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:47:23 GMT

Every time I see the U.S. Flag or U.S. Marines in any setting, I get a lump in my throat and deep-seated feeling of admiration and respect that can not be put into words. There is no better way to enhance any advertisement on U.S. television than to include the U.S. Flag or a few U.S. Marines in their dress-blues.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

GL, Washington DC — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:51:43 GMT

Wow... this was a pretty stupid column. If anything, the ads the Marine Corps release are much better than any of the other services - Marine Corps ads aren't about money for college, or getting a cool job where you can blow stuff up (like Army, Navy and Air Force ads). The Marine Corps (especially in this particular ad) is saying "this is our standard."
When a branch of the military, (or its advertising company) can come up with something that is not only respectful but borders on being a work of beauty, there's nothing disingenuous about it.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Stacy, Winn, MI — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:54:21 GMT

I know it has already been said, but you don't have to put the Marines doing anything on any type of national landmark for it to make a statement. You could simply put a Marine in his service dress in front of a house for it to make a statement. It is about honor, freedom, and self preservation. I am honored to have served, and I am ever greatful to all the individuals serving currently. Without their dedication, people would not be allowed to write articles stating how stupid they are.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

C Maloney, Seattle — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 16:02:00 GMT

What this add is clearly portraying is the sense of pride of self and country that is heald by all our Marines. Ask any girl who knows one, and I'm sure they'll tell you they are more proud of the service of their Marine than they are of their best pair of shoes...even if it is a Manolo.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Sam, Paris Island — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 16:02:18 GMT

....as a retired marine of 30+ years I would like to say that while some disagree with your view, I wanted you to know that me and my buddies fought for your right to have a differing opinion without fear of insult or slander. Appreciate the article, and my apologies for some "so-called" marines that can't just disagree without giving weight to sterotype of "jarhead".

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mike, Lansing MI — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 16:03:25 GMT

Wow. This is proof that a majority can be wrong. Think about this, Marines: if you're so patriotic and get all weepy over the Stars and Stripes, why aren't you doing this for free? That's what has irritated me since I first stepped on the yellow footprints. I'm a capitalist and I admit it. I joined the Corps because I needed a job. Your own perceived piety will reveal itself when you begin to ask about a re-enlistment bonus.

As for the danger involved, most of you will not, nor ever will, see combat or be placed in harm's way. That's a fact! For those who do, God bless you and be safe. But for the ones riding the coattails of those who have, you're just a bunch of poseurs. Why can't you tell your friends and family that it was just a job and you spent most of your time doing tasks that most civilians do? The mystique of the Marine Corps is all in your head!

You've fooled the American public, guys, but I know you too well. I've worn the uniform and did my time. You may love your country, but the worn-out catchphrases from Marine Corps posters and boot camp is a bunch of sanctimonious drivel. That's why I have to laugh at the commercials. Anything that requires such pomp and ceremony is covering up its real substance or lack thereof. Es Spirit de Corps is the greatest invention to unite weak minds. Congratulations. You're sentimental lemmings wearing dandy uniforms.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Ashlyn, Coloroado — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 16:16:42 GMT

Ms. Linn, you understand nothing about advertsing. Product placement sells. Your view of the placement of the commercial is correct in that the targt market for enlisting/commissioning would not be there, but look outside the box to the commerical as a whole. It's aptriotic, it's a reminder of our great nation (from sea to shining sea... get it now?) and above all, it's a tribute to the men and women currently in. I feel it was proper product placement given the demographics of the movie. These are the women who are in careers, possible married with kids or woman on the other page trying to emulate their beloved quartet. They are solid in their lives. This ad is a remindere to them that what FOXnews and MSNBC are reporting is 10% of the whole picture. It's a reminder to take pride in what they do because the Marines take pride in guarnteeing their right to do so. Here's a thought: what if this commerical hit the silver screen within a year of 9/11... what would your opinion be then?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Soldier, US Army, Killeen TX — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 16:31:06 GMT

I cant believe idiots like this get paid to write this crap, meanwhile soldiers like me have to dodge bullets for hazardous duty pay.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Bill Kirby, Yakima, Wa. — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 16:32:48 GMT

I wonder just where your thought process really was while in that theatre? You say you were there to watch a movie, but the piece you wrote was on an ad that appeared before the movie. Given your written article, did you even watch the movie or were you too engrossed in the ad showing the Marine Corp from Sea to shinning Sea.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Robert Gaines CPL USMC — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 16:43:59 GMT

"Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue" Admiral Nimitz

Try it...

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jason, Los Angeles, Ca — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 16:54:08 GMT

Im not commenting on the article but all the comments from the brainwashed "Heros" who keep spouting the same stuff that was rammed down their throat by some drill instructor. Being a Marine is a personal choice that may get you glory and "honor" but that whole "defending our freedom" has become a cliche joke. Ignorance is bliss fellas and when you join an outfit that teaches you to do what you're told and question nothing, then please keep spinning your rifle and shut up. No one has threatened my free speech except my own government, The last 3 major wars fought by this country has had nothing to do with our freedom. Its sad that people courageous enough to go take a bullet in the head wouldn't stand up and actually defend the constitution of the United States. Isn't that what you took an oath to? Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, are about geo political control, NOT defending our freedom. Freedom to police the world perhaps. Before your face turns red and you call me a commie liberal Id like to state that I am a true conservative, and a constitutionalist, Our founding fathers are my heros and I heed their warnings and lessons well. Perhaps if the few and the proud could look past the brainwashing they are put through in order to become pawns of big government then they might understand what true honor is and defend us from our real enemy and not some poor brown sap trying to feed his family in a far away land. Educate yourselves BEFORE you go join a military outfit, not after, by then its way to late and there is blood on your hands.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Marine Mom, Fort Worth, Texas — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 17:17:22 GMT

Okay, as we've established, the author knows and understands nothing about the Marine Corps. So here's a different viewpoint that answers her original musing about why place the commercial in the trailers for the movie.

What do the Marines and Sex and the City have to do with each other? Duh... Name any woman who doesn't like looking at a Marine in dress uniform.

I decided in junior high I wanted to marry a Marine. I did. Our oldest son is now serving. Our younger son has already signed his papers. I love my Marines and I'm proud of their service. But apart from that, I just love looking at the Marines in their uniforms.

I cry at all their commercials, but not because I fear what will happen to them, but because I am so proud of each and every one of them for what they are doing, the sacrifices they've made on a daily basis, and the knowledge of what faces them in the future. I pray for each of them that serve, even though I do not know their names. They are, and should be, our heroes.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

JC — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 17:19:14 GMT

Okay, so most SITC viewer are outside the USMC demographic and aren't inclined to sell themselves for $1,347 a month...that isn't the point in these modern times. What is the point is a huge number of forty-something mothers are disinclined toward military service and go out of their way to convince their children not to serve. In order to get those 18-year olds to raise their their hands, you've got to have a positive message selling the nobility of this calling to the MOTHERS of potiential enlistees. Amazingly enough, the USMC figured this out first!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jimmy Crackhorns — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 18:10:08 GMT

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Brian S Austin, TX — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 18:17:15 GMT

BURNED!

And this commercial is on all new movies. Don't you investigate information before reporting?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Byron, Pueblo CO — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 18:36:33 GMT

Whoever wrote this "article" obviously isn't a USMC sharpshooter. They missed the whole point of this ad. With the news media constantly filling the news outlets with gory stories of dismembered servicemen and women, with doom-and-gloom tales of how the terrorists are doing such horrendous damage to the US, and all that nonsense, the ad for the Marine Corps is intended to show that life in the Corps--and the rest of the military, by extension--is not all death and butchery. There is pride, and a hell of a lot of it, to be had in service to one's country, to stand shoulder to shoulder with fellow Marines, soldiers, sailors, or airmen. But the writer is one of those who obviously has sat teary-eyed and emotional without their daily "Smut and the Metropolis" fix and is thus entirely incapable of understanding that there are rewards to life outside the living room, many of them in wearing a uniform and being one of the few who will stand up for their country so the rest can waste oxygen watching pathetic excuses for movies and writing "articles" on MSNBC.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Chris Clark — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 18:38:28 GMT

Allison Linn,
It is clear that you just don't get it. I spent 21+ years serving in “your” Corps of Marines around the world and have never found a better or more honorable group of men and women anywhere, period. It is equally clear that you have never served in any branch of the Armed Forces or you would “get it”. While the commercial featured the Marines, it could just as easily feature the U.S. Army, Navy or Air Force as they all serve their country with dedication and pride and ask for nothing in return except the respect from their countrymen and a place to be buried if it comes to it. So it might be better if you wrote about something that you knew something about instead of besmirching the good name of the Marines.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

DJ — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 19:11:41 GMT

What the...? These young men and women and those who desire to champion something aside from a pair of pumps and a cosmopolitan, provide a blanket of security with their bodies and sinews which affords us the opportunity to NOT have to sit through Taliban or Nazi rant before watching a 'state issued' film. You were bothered? Why? Forget about the issue of the Iraq controversy. Sure, it’s a touch of propaganda and glorification. However, the disdain you felt is amazing. I get tired of shielding my sons’ eyes from the Harry Potter crap, sex, drugs, homosexual coupling, and tainted Hollywood lies that come on BEFORE the movie even starts. Yet, I don’t demean the individuals. I just despise the system a bit.

Get a grip and stop sleeping in la la land. This nation has been, is, and will continue to be the most hated nation on the earth because of our wealth and vehement support of Israel. When we hardballed Israel, certain Arab nations hated us. Think about Myramar. We have supplies to HELP sitting there and they turn us away. From helping them? Are there challenges? Yes. But as a Black man living in American with family, friends, and associates who have been or are currently in the military, this is a slap in the face. Considering we are less than three weeks away from the 4TH of July, maybe you should have stood, saluted, and cheered the folks who volunteered to put themselves in harm's way...so you can have Samantha and her friends can be served up on the silver screen and the world can talk about her friggin’ pumps.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

T. Kostner-Nicholson, Moline, IL — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 19:13:37 GMT

I think the demographic this ad was trying to capture was the moms of future Marines. It was not met as a direct venture given the demographic of the movie but more of an indirect that if you want your child to do something great the Marines provide that opportunity.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Chaps — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 19:35:56 GMT

J.C. Bing- A belated answer to your question: the Marines began issuing dress blues to all recruits in the summer of 2007. My son graduated in August 2007 and was the last company at MCRD San Diego before they started the issue. Folks on active duty who were not issued blues have something added to their clothing allowance until it totals enough to pay for a set.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Cpl. Chris, Dayton, OH — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 19:52:55 GMT

I am a former Marine, AND, was in Public Affairs while I was in (the people who handle ads such as this.) Why does the Marine Corps need to show weapons and training? Isn't it assumed that is a part of becomming a Marine?

So, we showcase the motivations that drive those special individuals who feel the call to be a Marine. Being a Marine is a decision to be something more than ordinary. The Army is a solid organization that performs its mission well, but, it is still perceived as ordinary compared to the Marine Corps. So, perception becomes reality because the United States Marine Corps draws people who are different, more driven, more aggressive, making it exactly what it is perceived to be. People who see those scenes and feel their heart stir with a need to preserve just that.

Now, because the Marine Corps has such a small advertising budget (smaller in proportion to size of force by half than any other branch of the military,) that they rely on donated time. So, Hollywood works out donated time combined with a smaller fee, thus, it may be that Hollywood donated that ad space before the movie. Or, each area has a person called a Public Affairs NCO (PANCO) who may have gotten the movie theater you were at to donate the space for the ad. So, while your tax dollars paid to produce the ad, quite possibly, Hollywood put the ad on the movie for free.

In the end, Marines protect, as does all the military, but, doesn't expect that you will understand.

Semper Fi!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Paul J Weber, Fredericksburg va — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 20:14:26 GMT

You have no clue. Yes, there are benefits to joining the services, but what the Marine Corps offers beyond the other services is the opportunity to be a Marine. THAT is what this ad is all about 23 yrs. 2 days of service, enlisted and officer... it is about being a Marine, nothing more, nothing less.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mark C, Phoenix, AZ — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 20:16:55 GMT

I think I get your point. Why would the Marines place a wonderful advertisement like this with a piece of trashy pornography like 'Sex and the City'? Why would the Marines want a bunch of low-lifes that think this movie is worth watching to think that they would have what it takes to be a Marine? By the way...did you enjoy the movie?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jim Roncal, Frisco, TX — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 20:57:35 GMT

Ms. Linn,

I often wonder about what civilians think when they see a commercial like the one currently being advertised in theatres and now I think I have some idea.

I will say this in the hopes that it will clarifiy any perceptions you may have.

When I was a teenager, barely 16 years old, I decided to join The United States Marine Corps after having a discussion about that branch of the armed forces with a Marine. I had been exposed to very little advertising regarding the armed forces and had to rely on word of mouth to help me visualize what life would be like the moment my feet hit the yellow footprints at MCRD San Diego.

Believe me when I tell you that it was in no way shape or form what I expected. In the short time that I served I saw the worst that humanity had to offer. I would spare you the awful truth of it all but I will say that it was nothing that you could summarize in a 30 second commercial tied to a movie about the 4 most famous New York women ever to grace the big screen. It was easily the most challenging experience of my life and I soon discovered that being a Marine meant so much more than wearing a Dress Blue uniform standing at the position of attention on a beach. What being a Marine meant was what that image implies. That implication is, regardless of what is going on in the world, We, The Few, will stand guard to keep all those who would try to harm people like you out of the country we call home. Keep you from harm so that you can voice your inexperienced interrogatives for all to hear.

Whenever my brothers and sisters in arms and I see the commercial you are referring to in your article it inspires us and people like us to reach for something bigger than we are. We aspire to be more than just someone with an opinion about something one has never experienced. And yes, war is the ugly reality. There is no greater tragedy than the horror of war. Still, whenever we see advertisements about our Corps, we feel a sense of pride I cannot describe in words.

So to answer your question about whether or not such a commercial turns us off or makes us feel pandered I have only this response: No.

Semper Fidelis

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

SSGT Sam Riley, USMC (Former) Birmingham, Alabama — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 20:58:11 GMT

This is written by someone who enjoys the freedom of speech that was granted by veterans. Enjoy your rant my friend, and thank a veteran while you are at it. You may want to remove this article as you just insulted many, many Marines. How rude could you be?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Corey, O'Fallon, MO — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 21:13:22 GMT

I couldn't even finish this horrible artice. Maybe you (the writer) need to start appreciating the freedom of watching that damn crappy movie in the first place and not think so hardly on what true Americans are doing to keep your typing ass safe. Is there really nothing better for you to write about? Sounds like someone needs to get a straw and suck it up....and then do us all a favor and keep your soup cooler shut. You have no idea what real people are doing to keep you safe. God bless all of our troops and especially my beloved Corps. Semper Fi leathernecks!
Sgt "Shooter", USMCR

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Beckett, Twin Falls, Idaho — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 21:15:26 GMT

Does anyone on here actually believe that a mother with a child intending to enlist in any branch of the sevice can be swayed by a commercial, be it on the big screen or the small? Doesn't say much for the strength it takes for a parent to let their children put themselves in harm's way. Often for no thanks, whatsoever.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Marine Vet of OIF — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 21:27:37 GMT

ive spent almost 2 years serving in iraq and missed countless numbers of birthdays weddings holidays and i wouldnt trade in my time in iraq for anything in the world spending those days with the MARINES was the best days of my life

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

an ass kicking female Marine — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 21:43:06 GMT

Anything Marine Corps brings tears to my eyes and why not? I earned that title twelve years ago. But people who aren't Marines just don't get it. Call me cocky. Call me arrogant. I call myself confident. Confident in my abilities and confident in my beloved Corps to defend freedom for all.

Lucky people like Ms. Linn can sit back and get paid to ask questions like, "Will this get people to join the Marines?" She brings up the fact that we're in a war and people who join could be placing their lives on the line. Well, duh. Everyone who joins the service, in war and in peace, knows that the ultimate sacrifice could come at any time.

So Ms. Linn, put on a uniform or shut the hell up. Don't tell me you get the same sense of pride from writing nonsensical trash that I get from seeing my brothers in all of their glory on the big screen. To all of my fellow Marines, SEMPER FI and god bless.

OOH RAH

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Kirk, Dallas, TX — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 21:48:51 GMT

You had to know you'd hear from the troops, didn't ya? I saw the same commercial while at a theater and remember thinking it was a little over the top. Before someone gives me guff about saying that, I'll tell you I served for 20 years. Reading all these patriotic responses, I've given my first impression a second though. Nope....still think it was over the top....exactly what it takes to warm the breast of a young man or woman (they join too, ya know.....and like Sex and the City) who's maybe thinking about joining and solidifying their resolve. It's the antithesis of "thinking it over"

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Carolyn E, San Francisco, CA — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 21:49:55 GMT

"...by the contradiction between what this commercial presents, and what reality has to offer....you will likely be facing a messy battlefield."

Well, darn, Allison, what's your problem? Is it the fact that Saddam didn't bother to vacuum that 'messy battlefield' before he left? Which meant those dress blues of the Marines got icky-dirty unearthing the mass graves he left behind or cleaning out the 'rape' rooms of Saddam's sons or the torture chambers where Saddam killed a man's family in front of him before chopping off the man's hands and then burning him alive! Like gross!

But then I guess I can see your point. It's not like you got all dressed up in your Manolo Blahniks to watch a film about four self-centered, vacuous, materialistic women who've never voted for anyone in their lives = only to have your fun spoiled by a stupid commercial that DARES to reveal a life built on honor, patriotism and self-sacrifice.

As your girlfriends would put it - eeewwww! That so does NOT go with Prada!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

J. McGowan Phila, PA — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 22:27:05 GMT

The placement with a SEX & The City promo does seem incongruous but perhaps strategic in enlightening women to what is the motivation and perhaps even on the chance of gaining if not support, maybe understanding from mothers,wives and girfriends.
A question: what would have happened to the country if through the ages people like you told their sons "they were stupid to serve". Who serves? After 9/11 if anyone ignored the threat to this country they are selfish,self serving, brain dead or betting there are those "stupid" ones that will fight and defend us so we don't have to risk our own children.
Every generation has a price pay for our freedom.
You may have a honest principled objection to entering a conflict for varied reasons but they are never acceptable if our country's security is at stake and No Objection should EVER undermine support for our troops who DO SERVE (as happened with our Veitnan Vets - a national disgrace).
Presently ther are only three people serving in congress who have children serving in the military. What does that say about the sacrifice our politicians make for our liberty and what does that say about their patrioticism. Incidentally, one of the three who have children serving is Sen. John McCain and we all know his personal sacrifice along with his father's.
Most of the presenter's breed are full of criticism but short on personal commitment and paying their share of the "price for freedom" and taking their turn.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

an ass kicking female Marine — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 22:46:02 GMT

Oh Rah!! I get what she's saying 100%...you jar heads are simple mindedly wearing chips on your shoulders. She said the VENUE was inappropriate, not the ad, not what it represents. Can any of you adrenalmaniacs read, because I swear, the context of what she wrote was totally lost you the majority that posted here.

Marines, doing gun drills, around the country. Sorry, that aint the Marines at all. They are the tip of a very bloody and deadly spear. To white wash it this way is really intellectually dishonest (google it if you don't know what it means!), in a movie theater about narcissistic women in Manhattan and their melodramatic sex lives. Yeah man, that's a great venue for a ad to recruit natural borne killers. Semper Fi guys but get over yourselves already.

"This is my rifle..."
Jimmy Crackhorns (Sent Wednesday, June 18, 2008 2:10 PM)
******************************************************

(@_@) So you call the ad whitewashing? You defend Ms. Linn and say that we "jarheads" are missing her point?

"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."

Yeah, I feel turned off and pandered to by the contradiction in this commercial. I feel turned off when I see Marines in dress blues because I know that during combat they wear cammies. Anyone with half a brain knows the "realities" of joining any branch of the service. The context of the statement quoted above was not lost on me in any way. It's an idiotic statement from someone who just doesn't get it. I have never looked at any Marine commercial and thought, "Gee, my recruiter lied to me. I didn't get to march around in my blues all of the time!" No person with any amount of common sense would look at this ad and decide to become a Marine without knowing what the Marines is all about.

BTW- it's OOH RAH, not Oh Rah. And the venue isn't necessarily bad. How many boyfriends will be dragged to that pointless movie and will see the ad and view the Marines as an escape from Carrie, Samantha, and co.?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Pandered To Marine, Greensboro, NC — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 23:14:01 GMT

"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."
Read all the responses to this absurd article, Allison and you tell me. It surprises me that you would even attempt to write an article about anything to do with Marines when you obviously have no idea who we are.
So you really think that people who join the Corps are so ignorant that they missed the fact that there is a war going on? Therefore, they watch this recruiting video, and ignorant of the risk, join up and then feel pandered to when they find out they may be sent abroad AS A MARINE?
Do you not have an editor who proofs these articles before they are published? The whole premise of this article is one big fault in logic. I don't think you have a very promising journalism career ahead of you.

Semper Fi, Marines.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Edwin R Coreas, National City, CA — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:18:17 GMT

I respectfully disagree; “America’s Marines” is not disingenuous as you say. Why? The ad is not playing off the viewer’s adrenalin to join up and serve. There are no images of war, killing, or as you state “the allure of physical feats of greatness and the sheer power of using advanced fighting machinery”. You write about the “Tout benefits such as opportunities and education”, you are stating that the USMC is unrestrained by convention, implying that the educational benefits are an audacious form of trickery. The primary reason for a military branch is not to fund education but to protect the United States of America. Having the education benefit like the GI Bill is a small form gratitude for serving your country. You state that the “sobering truth” 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.” Nice detective skills Sherlock Holmes, do you think that people who enlist don’t have enough logic and reasoning. War or no war, enlisting in the military may require you to go to war, and if you are in war you may die. It is just the facts; you enlist because you are willing to die for your country, you want to protect your family, defend the borders of our country, and safeguard the freedoms of our Bill or Rights. Wow the notion of such writing proves how nonexistent your comprehension of joining the military is. Perhaps you may have forgotten the following quote by John F. Kennedy, “My fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country”. Try to keep that in mind next time you write about things you don not know. The Marine Corps is the definition of Honor, Courage and Commitment. That is why we are the FEW the PROUD the MARINES.

-Semper Fi
"C"

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

P Moon — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 02:10:03 GMT

Thank you, Mike, for a refreshing perspective. The rest of you: thanks for volunteering, and you are a very sensitive, defensive group.
The Coke commercial showing communication between Dems and Repubs is what made an impression on me at the SATC movie...a new approach.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

mshoo — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 02:42:09 GMT

Mike and a few others, esp. former marines who have the guts to break out of the mold, thanks for the refreshing perspective. The rest of you, thanks for serving, and you are a defensive and sensitive bunch. I found the Coke commercial showing repubss and dems communicating to be the one worth commenting on - a new perspective. I remember the day the Vietnam war ended; I had my son at home and didn't want to get him a birth certificate so he would never be drafted.
ps Don't you marines believe you defended free speech while you were at it?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Deanna, Macomb, MI — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 02:49:33 GMT

Everytime I see this ad I am so proud of anyone in uniform but I am partial to the Marines having two sons in the Young Marines! People commenting on this being shown to a certain demographic is wrong I have gone to the show several times and have seen this ad from Ironman to Indiana Jones its not just for the mothers of future enlisters.
Semper Fi, A proud American

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Doe Doe — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 04:05:03 GMT

Sad, real sad. No one has the guts , the strength, or the resources to threaten the US or it's citizens' freedoms. No one. The Marines or for that matter soldiers of any country are mere pawns that older men use in their personal quest for 'greatness'.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

LCpl Pope, San Diego, CA — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 04:38:07 GMT

I hate to think about what your definition of a "messy" battlefield would be. Lets just thank god you awake every morning to a free life that is protected by the types of individuals you misunderstand the most, or else where would the world be without your outrageous articles? Take time out of your plastic world to truly understand Honor, Courage, Commitment, and Faith. Maybe then you will slightly understand the United States Marines.

S/F to the Marines out there.
USMC

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

tree hugging sister — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 04:45:08 GMT

SURELY you jest? I know you wrote this big media column and all, but somehow...dang. It's made me cry every one of the hundreds of times I've seen it, but...there's a war on?

C'mon. You're kidding.

Right?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Andrew Shomette, Lake Jackson, Texas. — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 04:46:32 GMT

Wow.. You'd think that people would be appreciative of the men and women serving our country so that you have the right to write this article online. Some people are just so selfish. These are selfless men and women laying their lives down for you and me, and then the jerks that write articles like this. Reading things like this article make me sick to my stomach, although, reading the comments from these wise people have given me hope for the nation again.. By the way, I'm a sixteen year-old boy from a small town in Texas.
You'd think a thirty to forty something year-old lady could have some pride..

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

bruce green — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 06:12:13 GMT

And we hear from another Give Me Give Me type!
A Marine 2xNam Vet

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Linda, New Mexico — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 11:38:34 GMT

Semper Fidelis, Leathernecks! My family has served in all branches of the service for generations (including me) and we currently have 4 "kids" serving in the Middle East. One of our family jokes is about my sister being the world's oldest hangover: you know her birthday if you count forward nine months from the Marine Corps' birthday when my parents decided to stay home and celebrate instead of going to the ball. Mom says it was really good champagne!

Being 'first to fight' is something the Marines are known for and when a "kid" wants to join the Marines, it's not because he or she is only in love with those gorgeous dress blues. He or she may have an unreasonable expectation of what being a Marine means, but I know from personal experience that unreasonable expectations can apply to the Navy or any other branch of the service.

What do you do when you need help? You send in the Marines--everybody knows this. Surely all of those John Wayne movies were not made in vain! Not all of us are able or willing to serve as a Marine, or to serve at all in one of the military branches, and the ones that do serve know they're risking their lives. Being in the military does not mean they're stupid.

This commercial is just showing a little bit of what our Marines (and Soldiers and Airmen and Sailors) have died for so Ms. Linn can go to new movies and write supercilious, patronizing comments about our military because she judges a commerical to be expensive, a logistical nightmare and disingenuous. Gee, sounds like most other commercials!

Man, I love those dress blues and get all teary and emotional when I see 'em. No other branch of service can beat the Marines when it comes to duty, honor and country--and no other branch of the service looks as pretty doing it.

And, Ms. Linn, serving in the Marines or any other branch of the service has always been an agreement to risk your life for your country. Duh! It's not a bad thing if you can get an education or advanced training or other benefits out of it, too.

My military background, both from birth and my own six-year enlistment, gave me the foundation I needed to become strong, independent, self-sufficient, tactical, confident, giving, strategical, supportive and a team player so I could move on to the next thing--being a wife and mother and a police officer with a degree in Criminal Justice. I'm a grandmother and a patrol Sergeant now--and I'm the person I am because of the US of A's greatest asset: the American military.

Oorah!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Des, Fall River, Ma — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 13:09:13 GMT

Is this the only time marines blog? They are very defensive of their honor, i know because my brother is one and was never that passionate about anything until he joined. honestly, it kind of feels like brainwashing Scientology bullcrap to me. my brother's recruiter tried to get me to join. I simply said that I could not kill anyone. He asked, "even if it was you or him?" I replied, "if that were the case then I would to survive, but i'm not going to put myself in that situation." He shut up.

Nothing against Marines. I mean if you have the guts and drive to do what they do, then by all means do it. I appreciate it, the country appreciates it. But we "civilians" do have a right to express our opinions.

Then again Ms. Linn, you always get picked on, dont you?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Lance Cichocki, Dallas, Texas — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 13:56:44 GMT

Thank you so much for your article Ms Linn. Thank you for exposing two irrefutable truths- 1)you are a complete buffoon, and 2)the biased left wing media is totally out of touch with reality. Hundreds of thousands of brave and selfless men and women have preserved your gift of freedom of speech...thanks for squandering this gift with your published piece of garbage.

Please feel free to read my comments and these other posted comments with your other liberal buddies. I can see it now. You and all of your pals dressed in the latest Sex in the City dictated fashions at some hoity toity wine and cheese soiree. You smugly read these comments and everyone is laughing and mocking them. You and your shallow friends wonder how everyone in the military could be so brainwashed and speculate as to why anyone would want to join the military in the first place. After a while, this gets boring. You change the conversation to any one of the other liberal staples of conversation- the war is wrong, Bush is an idiot, America is racist and misogynistic, if we could only talk with the terrorists we could all get along and coexist peacefully, etc. WAKE UP AND GET A CLUE!

Lance Cichocki (USMC officer '92 - '96)

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Gene Jackson, — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 14:03:32 GMT

The Idiocy of the blatantly liberal media never ceases to amaze me. It's a damn shame there are more liberal idiots that keep hiring and promoting this kind of trash

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Kitty Wickert, Sheboygan Wisconsin — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:36:39 GMT

What the commericial portrays the Marines as and what the reality of what a Marine is-is not a contradiction. They are one and the same. I have attended Marine functions with Marines in their dress blues showing all the dignity, honor, beauty, and dedication that each Marine has. Yet, I was well aware that this was the "dress" part of the Marine and a few days earlier, some of them were dirty, smelly, killing, hard core Marines on the battle field. Recruits are well informed of the reality of being a Marine. Even a very young recruit knows that he will not be wearing his dress blues and "looking good" in boot camp or on the battle field and his job may be at times life threatening and dirty. Yet, as the commercial depicts, he can also at times be stunningly handsome in his dress blues portraying all the dignity, honor and dedication of a Marine. As a Marine mom, I know that inside that handsome marine in his dress blues is one very tough, dedicated, determined, intelligent and capable of killing, man. Please pray for the safety of all our military personnel.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

an ass kicking female Marine — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:48:58 GMT

I guess I have to comment on the brainwashing thing that others have pointed out. From a psychological standpoint it is. You're basically removed from your comfort zone, threatened, harassed, and intimidated and then promised your freedom (graduation and entering the fleet) if you conform. But you also inherit a sense of pride that can hardly be matched by any experience out in the civilian world. You do something that other people are envious of. The Marines are known worldwide for what they do and when you're the best, it's hard to be humble.

So recruiters bring up killing someone? Well, it's a gut check to see if you can do it. The same question is asked of police recruits. Does that constitute brainwashing Scientology bullcrap? (@_@)

So I guess I'm a defensive Marine. I earned that right. I would fully expect to get slammed if I were to bash someone for being defensive about something they're passionate about.

And as for defending free speech, yeah we do. That doesn't mean that we forfeit the right to be upset about what others say. Surely Ms. Linn will be upset about things people wrote on this blog but that's life. If she were to fire back at us then that's her right and I would be interested in seeing her defend what she wrote.

And that being said, this crazy,defensive, brainwashed Marine will get herself back to work now. Semper Fi and god bless. Show your support for our men and women in uniform regardless of how you feel about the war. Be grateful that someone has the guts to volunteer for the job and that you won't be drafted to do it.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Tyler Durden Hills of Tennessee — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:23:32 GMT

Look everybody know that those ads, ad recruitment promises are as far from reality as can possibly be imagined. Most people figure that out, day 1. Why does everybody posting see this as some attack on the Corps? Its calling a spade a spade. Rolling around in the mud and the sand and the rain, in sweltering heat ect. ect. is not glamorous, it's not something they would be stupid enough to put in a commercial because thats not what gets people to join. Courage, Honor, Duty, these are fine ideaologies but to say that it's all sunshine and roses is crazy and then attacking someone who points that out is far from honorable. I get we all love the military, but don't be hipocrytical either...you've all been there. Disagreement is not dissention, which is the opposite with what has traditionally been drilled into a soldiers very core. So anyway why does everybody have to get so uptight, it's an article on the internet. Relax, Opinions are like assholes everybody has them.

P.S. Huah!!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Dave, Ann Arbor, Michigan — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:28:21 GMT

I also disagree with the piece. While I agree with what it says most Military commercials should encompass, what the author fails to mention is that in showing the marines all over the country in a line doing rifle drills, and it is clearly a metaphor for a line of defense that protects our country. The message is sent that in fighting abroad, the marines are protecting our country here at home. However, I do agree that it is foolish planning to run this Ad prior to the screening of Sex and the City. Really, who are they trying to reach with that decision?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

adrienne, charleston, sc — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:40:20 GMT

i think this particular commercial is one of the best i have seen to promote the marines. previously, i'd seen a lot of ads where a buff guy defeats a lava monster with a sword, and then morphs into a marine. ooo, special effects. i like this one because of the grandeur and patriotism the commercial reminds you of. and i have seen it on a small screen many times, and i still understand it.
but i do agree that showing it before a movie that speaks to women 25 - 45 is an odd time. unless it's all about the buff guys.

10-year USAF veteran

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Tyler Durden — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:52:24 GMT

Recruitments ads that are completely fictional representations of life in the military. OH SAY IT AIN'T SO!!!! I thought everybody knew that. Well somebody had to say it, it's not like people have never felt duped by a recruiter. It's usually too late that they realize it. Basic training is usually that sobering reality check. It's not like the writer of the article blasted the marines, disagreement is not dissention. Saying you don't like something is not treason. Don't act like small children in an argument over who's dad could kick whose dad. Your all acting like children. Simple, ignorant, and close minded. Nothing to tarnish your precious fantasy of what military life is like. I love the military but I'm not going to lie to people about how great it is. You either like and live with it or you dont' like certain aspects of it and do your duty. Brainwashing people into believing that all forms of disagreement is second to treason is just a another control imposed upon the masses. This country is founded on freedom of speech and expression of ideas. The writer gets her opinion, you get yours and I get mine. Nobody said we had to agree, the moment you become holier than thou and start wanting to impose your ideas on others is where the whole thing breaks down. Recruitment poster, commercials, pamphlets are pure fantasy. Those photoblogs you see from Iraq and those stories that soldiers tell about training and fighting are the reality. If you ask a (current or former)soldier or marine E-5 and under he will tell you the reality of things, he will tell you of his experiences, the horrors, tragedies, and the greatness of serving and he will tell you to seriously consider the decisions you going to make to enlist. Then he will of course add that if he could do it over again he wouldn't change a thing.
That's what I'd tell anyone, thats what my friends would tell anyone. I wouldn't change a thing but i wouldn't wholeheartedly defend a lie either.

HUAH!!!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jim Brennan — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 17:08:21 GMT

Thanks for the silly article that stimulated such wonderful observations in the much more sophisticated and sensitive responses seen here. As one drafted in the first VN draft who barely missed the unique distinction of being drafted into the Marines (every fourth draftee inducted that pre-dawn morning was marched out timmediately under the glowering frown of an unhappy gunny), this Army puke offers his salute to the lean and the mean.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Andy — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 17:10:16 GMT

I think of the Marines as an expiditionary force that stomps Nazis, Commies and Jihadis in foreign lands. It's a cool commercial anyway.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Rick M. Kettering Ohio — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 17:28:29 GMT

This add to me, as a former marine, represents what a marine truly is...

PERFECTION!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

A former Marine and veteran — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 17:50:37 GMT

Public image and recruiting are not necessarily related. Since the ad was presented prior to a movie attended primarily by persons of the female persuasion, one has to wonder if the purpose of the ad was not so much a tool to attract a "few good men", but, rather, a tool to attract a "few good girlfriends." Nothing like fan mail from hot young females back home to improve moral on the front.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Ed Ronald, CA — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 17:57:56 GMT

To Mike, Lansing MI, not everyone joins for to get a job as you say. You did because you may have needed a push or a sense of direction. You have worn the uniform, great, but that doesn’t mean you know what it means to be a marine. A change in perspective is always welcome; your insight provides the answer of why fools rush in. You remind me of the cowardly few who wear the uniform who hide from war, cry for their mother, and claim to love this country.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

JH, Stafford, VA — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 18:05:03 GMT

Is this a great country, or what?!!! To be able to have the kind of exchange that I've just been reading over a seemingly non-consequential item as an ad in the theater is truly a sign of how wonderful FREEDOM is!! America Bless God!! (USMC = my husband/retired after 20 years; USMCR = my son/4th year of a 6-year commitment & currently in Iraq with The Few & The Proud -- The absolute FINEST!) SEMPER FI!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Proud mom of a USMC Sniper, West Allis, WI — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 18:09:58 GMT

I am so pleased to see all the wonderful comments supporting our Marines and our military. I am also waiting for my Marine son to come home sometime in August from Iraq. When I get a chance to talk with him he always tells me to tell all that are praying and thinking of him that he LOVES his job. I was touched seeing this ad when I saw SITC opening weekend with my girlfriends who all cheered when the ad was finished. PROUD MOM of a USMC Sniper - West Allis, WI

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

DG, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 18:11:48 GMT

The ad, like all ads, puts its best-dressed foot forward. Less people would join if the ad showed nothing but flag-draped coffins. You don't buy a car because the ad shows you the joys of changing the oil. If every ad showed the truth, there would be a lot less sales.
I guess my point is this: not only "You can't handle the truth!" but "They don't want to show you the truth!" and "You don't even want to see the truth, especially when you were expecting a movie, not a war ad!"

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Brian Green, Glenview, IL — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 18:17:19 GMT

I agree with the thoughts expressed in your column and am disgusted by the militaristic and ridiculous comments many of these people make, as if voicing a dissenting opinion is somehow unpatriotic. Many of the far-flung military ventures this country has gotten embroiled in since World War II have nothing to do with defending our freedom (Vietnam, Korea, Iraq); we were a free country before these ventures and we remain a free country, even though the first two conflicts ended in defeat. So what do we say to the 100,000 or so U.S. families who lost loved ones in Korea and Vietnam? Sorry, we were wrong. These militaristic fools think everything can be solved with the use of force; the Bush mentality of "bring it on" reminds me of high school. It would be funny except we're talking about people's lives. Sending kids to die in conflicts that have nothing to do with this nation's securtiy is the ultimate disrespect. We owe them far better than that.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Always a Marine — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 18:19:15 GMT

With all due respect, don't make something more of this vehicle to advertise than you are... it not only represents the strength of our nation and most elite fighting force this world has ever seen... it also comes at a time when the political left refuses to acknowledge our men and women who serve in all armed services are selfless and committed to our freedoms world wide except for they're own political gain (i.e. Obama's track record). Unfortunately, another media type bashing from a different angle. Semper Fi

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Craig, Vancouver, Canada — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 18:21:11 GMT

Ok, folks, I`m a little confused by the anger against the author, but let me run my colours up the mast first so you know where I`m coming from on this subject.

I`m a vet. as well, not of the Marines or any other American military unit, but of the South African Army at the height of our Bush war in Angola, and I currently serve in the Canadian Army and are on inline for the next roto to Afghanistan.
So we are brothers in arms.

I`ve read and re read what the author wrote and I cannot see what you guys are angry about, she is giving an opinion of how effective the ad will be in recruiting for the Marines. She makes no diparaging remarks, in fact if you read the article again she states that she has enormous respect for all the forces serving by writing the following ...
" The past few years have generated in us all an enormous amount of respect for the troops, and we certainly mean no disrespect here"

Yes, she is a civilian, YES I know how you feel about them, hell, we had them in SA and we have them by the bushel in Canada and I also get frustrated by there ignorant remarks..but guys, she`s commenting about THE ADS EFFECTIVNESS, not about the honour of the Corps or those that have served/ are serving, direct your anger towards the Shi`ites, Sunni and Taliban who are blowing the boys up,and not on a self absorbed Liberal civilian, because you know as well as I do that there are thousands of them and if you respond to every patently stupid remark they make (eg Jimmy Crackhorns 18 June 08) you will eventually give yourself a heart attack.

Remember, when God make Adam and Eve he also made Liberal civilians to show us just how stupid we would be, if we were one of them.LOL

Go Marines

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Dave Hughes — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 18:46:37 GMT

I applaud your making the video link available, but found your comments off-point. As a veteran, the ad brought tears to my eyes. It would have sufficed for you to write that you just saw a very moving advertisement without delving into sentiments about the Iraq conflict. "Journalism" (even your variety) doesn't always have to attempt to construct an opposing view of something beautiful. God Bless Our Fine Marines!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Ruth, Louisiana — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 19:06:03 GMT

I think the writer makes some good points. Obviously, most people realize that most of the responses would be from Marines.

I do think that when you look at it, the production of something like this takes some HUGE bucks. It would be interesting to have that information as part of the commentary.

I believe that this ad works to reinstill pride in a force that has had some in it tarnish its image. Being part of a military family, I can understand that there are some things that the average person doesn't realize about the sacrifice of those who serve. However, even though my own father while serving for the U.S. Army for 19-plus years died as a direct result of his service, I would and will never resort to the tactic of calling someone who does not understand and expresses the type of opinion the writer expressed here as "the enemy." Because my father -- who had one of the toughest jobs 24/7, every day of every week for 19-plus years -- never taught me to think that way, and he understood that every single American is respnsible for protecting America in their own way. And many people in many different positions, roles, and levels of society make that happen...as long as they accept the responsibility. But as a career military man, he understood that it was not just the military -- and especially not just one branch of it -- that makes safety and security for America and Americans.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

David Davenport, Greenville, SC — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 19:06:32 GMT

Dear Ms. Linn,
Since no self respecting jounalist would deliberately portray themself as being so naive and/or as being so ignorant as you have done in your article, I assume that you have done so simply to goad your readers into revealing their patriotism. The volume and the intensity of their responses supporting our Marines is truly impressive. Well done!
An Army Veteran

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

H. Holmes Phoenix Az. — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 19:13:23 GMT

I will only say one thing about all the messages. posted here......Semper Fi!!!!!!!!! my brothers and sisters. everyone else will just not understand how deep that goes.
SGT Holmes

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jose Plaza, Erie,PA — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 19:13:34 GMT

This ad is about how Marines since 1775 have battled on foreign shores to protect this country and now we have a battle in our own backyard. It is a reminder that when you are sitting in that theater watching a movie that quite frankly has no value to this nation, it is becuase Marines and all the other military branches that serve this country with great pride and honor are fighting to protect us and provide us with the freedom to watch this movie or any other movie that you might not see in some other countries. It is easy to live in a vacum and disect a commercial about the Marines, but unless you have worn the dress blue uniform you will never understand. So God bless you and God bless America.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Robb Hill Evanston Wyoming — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 19:39:30 GMT

I watched this commercial several times. I believe that this is one of the finest commercials I have ever seen. As a 15 year veteran in the US ARMY I have had the privelige of making many friends from all the services. I am thankful the we do answer the call of duty. This commercial does justice to the USMC and is inspiring.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

AF brat who went Army — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 08:22:59 GMT

As an Army veteran, I am rather appalled that most of the commentors missed the point of the article. Instead of understanding the author's viewpoint of why the commercial seemed so out of place at a SITC movie, many chose to attack the author and call her all sorts of unnecessary things. She is only questioning the fact that while the commercial is beautiful, some people may not get the point about 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." This is a true comment. Look at the "Army Strong" commercials. They compare climbing a mountain as being strong, while landing a helicopter on the mountain is "Army Strong." How many have watched those commercials and not thought about how cool that would be? This commercial does not play upon those feelings, but upon the regular "This is a great country to live in" feeling that seems to be missing nowadays.
The military is not for everyone, we know this, but to attack an author about her choice of words and to try to denegrate her opinion strikes me as rather harsh.
My grandfather is a Marine, one is AF my dad is AF just about everyone else in my family has been military for five generations.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Retired military — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 21:44:25 GMT

Allow me to keep this short and sweet. This was a friendly reminder that because of us, you have the freedom to enjoy unprohibited screenplays, whether the rest of the world would allow you or not. Be grateful. Some people need this at the beginning of films, to remind them that human lives are being sacrificed so that freedom can be. All that is asked is a silent (in the theatre) moment of gratitude.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jerri Kestner, Spanway, WA — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 04:05:18 GMT

Semper Fi! Advertise those handsome, fit, fighting machine, Marine's! I love every one of them and get a clue it's not all about war, it's about a way of life prior to, during, and after conflicts! Once a Marine always a Marine. Some military are never in a conflict, some entertain like those Strike Marine's you saw at the theater! Remember; a Vet is one society that one cannot ever be removed from for any reason. I love it!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Theresa, Murfreesboro, TN — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 08:31:26 GMT

The best part of this article was the terrific responses it invoked from everyone. My daughter,the pride of her two Marine parents, saw this ad at the premiere and loved it. The Marines shall always be the ones to showcase beautiful American pride and sacrifice.

Woman Marine forever

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Cameron Slone, Chesapeake, Virginia — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:37:17 GMT

I would just like to say thank you to all of the men and women in uniform, at home and abroad. And of course a special thanks to my baby brother Marine Corps Corporal Matthew T. Pilkington, his wife Marine Corps Sergeant Jane E. Pilkington and my dear friend Marine Corps Corporal Dustin L. Schappell. You are my heroes and I love you.

To the moron that wrote this article... our service men and women are the ones that have fought and died for your right to spew your liberal nonsense. Please keep that in mind the next time you choose to do so and show a little respect.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Brent, Richmond VA — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:57:10 GMT

After reading Ms. Linn's article, I fail to see where she is criticizing the Marines. If anything, her message is quite the opposite.

Based on the comments by Marines here, it is clear that reading comprehension is not taught in the Corps.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Ron Alpha — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 17:22:29 GMT

This ad should be broadcasted every hour on every TV and cable channel in the country. Military service in a time of war is the highest form of community service our youth could undertake.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Newswatcher, Wisconsin — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 18:02:22 GMT

As a person who didn't serve in the Marine Corps (or anywhere else) and as a thoughtful person with a deep background in military history and science, I'd offer this: the ad understands what it is to be a Marine. It offers a view of discipline in the changing landscape of America. For the literate Americans remaining (and I hope that would include you, Alison), I'd say take a look at the excellent history "Colder than Hell" a chronicle of how the Marines fought their way out of Chosin Reservoir in the Korean "conflict, while the Army unit to the east was shattered after their discipline broke down, "Iwo Jima,: World War II Veterans remember the greatest battle of the Pacific" or "The the Far Side of Hell: the battle for Peleliu, 1944." (There are also several good books on the Marines at Guadalcanal or in Vietnam. Nathaniel Fick's "One Bullet Away" imparts the spirit of the modern U.S. Marines, as well as the battles in Iraq.)
Find a little background like this and you can begin--BEGIN--to understand the elan of the Marines. I know at 58 I'll never fully understand what being in the Corps imparts. But I've glimpsed it, reading the words of those who have served, and those who have chronicled their sacrifice. And I believe this commercial touches on all of the best qualities of that branch of the service.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Newswatcher, Wisconsin — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 18:06:07 GMT

By the way, could some of you dial down your hostility, just a little? I'm tired of living in a country where everyone who disagrees with your point of view has to be a fathead. One thing America doesn't--and shouldn't--have is a hive mentality. A little more thought, a little more patience, might do the country some good.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jim Hook — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 20:16:11 GMT

When this "ad" is shown, I never fail to turn up the volume and watch with full concentration. I never fail to feel pride in my heart with a small lump in my throat for my friends that have paid the ultimate price so that a person can pass judgement on this masterful piece to watch.I never fail to stand when the flag passes..... never fail to place my hand over my heart..... and never fail to utter a prayer of thanks!! Thank you military!!! Especially the Marines!! I feel your pride!! God Bless...

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Dan — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 23:42:13 GMT

The drills are a metaphor for learning to do something very, very well--which Marines do. They take pride in accomplishing serious tasks, as they should, and yes it is sometimes a grim and grinding job. It starts out with drills. The backdrops (Grand Canyon, Golden Gate Bridge) speak of the country we love and the reason Marines learn to perform those tasks so well. I haven't seen the ad, but it sounds like it's perfect.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Ramona L. Phillips, Granite City, IL — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 16:34:07 GMT

As the Mother of a fallen soldier (a flight medic) Sgt Steven Paul Mennemeyer; he would have said as an American Citizen you have a right to your opinion, no matter how stupid or misinformed. My son was proud to serve and believed in what he was doing, something you no doubt can never understand.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Wyo — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 19:06:43 GMT

Cynthia T,
Thank you for your service. I do not believe that serving in the military really protects the first amendment. The military branches do not object to government limitations on free speech (yes that's what the first amendment is about) I think serving in the military protects our nation and our alleys and does a superb job of it. Let's get back to reality.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Daniel — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 19:45:18 GMT

Rather than it being the author who doesn't get the point of the commercial -- its the rabid Corps flagwavers who don't get the point the author is making.

What she was trying to point out is that the people who would consider joining the services at the moment are not going to be that swayed by pageantry. (all services really) A lot of money was spent on a piece of cinematography that only works on those that don't need it. Most of those saying the piece is "spot on" are already IN or WERE IN the Corps.

---

The poster that commented that a small percentage of soldiers are the only ones that will face combat is a bit misleading in the current environment. Personally I consider ALL the deployed troops at risk, even if they are commo or admin.

And for those that want to villify me, I an ex-Army and I was deployed in 1990 to do commo support for Operation Provide Comfort in Iraq. The Legionaires and Airborne troops I directly supported were on the leading edge of the engagement area -- but very technically I wasn't "in combat."

---

I will agree with the authors comments about 5 years too. If you want to apply "continuously" to the period after 1991 then you need to go back to Korea -- the DMZ is still there and we still have troops manning it.

It WAS a pretty commencial though, and will likely sway a few indecisive into the Corps. The Army has its own problems with advertizing -- "Army of One?" Please.... ("GET your ARMY of ONE into my Platoon of 40, Private! -- the Drills loved that one....)

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mary, Goodyear, AZ — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 20:46:11 GMT

Seeing the " Marine" commercials always make me feel proud. Even as a little girl. Next time close your eyes and think of the men and women who can't sit there and watch a movie! Shame on you for even being so petty. But we in the USA have our freedom of speech.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

John,Woburn,MA — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 21:55:19 GMT

Forget the T.V. shows and the movies. Reality is Parris Island on a Recruit Graduation Day. Tell me what you see and feel when the young men and women march across that the Parade Ground. Better yet go 16 weeks before the graduation and meet some of them to see what they are like before the training. At Graduation the young women Marines are all beautiful and the young men handsome and unlike the dopes portrayed in the movie these are young people of substance. Who whether you appreciate it or not will put their lives on the line to defend purveyors of superficial garbage like SATC.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Sgt, Chicago, IL — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 23:03:24 GMT

Thanks for including the link to the commercial. Now, please watch it. The Marines and armed services protect everything you see there, whether you believe it or not. That is the point of the commercial. If not for the Marines and all our soldiers, we probably would not be speaking English but instead Russian, Chinese, Japanese or German and you wouldn't have a job since most of our enemies do not allow you the freedom to express your opinion. May God Bless America and our soldiers.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

RH — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 23:42:42 GMT

I am from a time when a young man either got drafted or enlisted. My Uncle was a Marine, a veteran of Guadalcanal and Pelelieu, wounded both places. His words to me were that if I joined the Corps, he would kill me as soon as I got out of boot camp. I enlisted in the Navy. I think everyone needs to serve the Republic for at least two years.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Bruce Williams, Pasadena, CA — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:22:22 GMT

They can represent themselves however they want to, they have earned that right.

You can write whatever you want to, they have earned you that right.

Kinda says it all, doesn't it?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

D. Bragg St Louis MO — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 03:13:49 GMT

To be a Marine you first have to earn the title. It is not easy or there wouldn't be a Marine Corps. You knew what you were getting into when you joined. Do any of these sound familiar: First to fight, America's 911 force, Mess with the best die like the rest, Death before dishonor, Live by chance, Love by choice, Kill by profession. Did you see any sugar coating there. These are only a few but you get my point. Those folks that were confused about what was expected when they joined were weeded out in boot camp. Just because you join the Marines doesn’t guarantee you will become one. The Marine Corps is like a big fraternity. No matter when you served peace time or in war everyone who has earned the right to be called Marine will have a brother for life. A Marine, there is never a better friend or worse enemy, the choice is yours. Apparently, as you read these comments you made the wrong decision.

Semper Fi

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Anna, St. Louis, MO — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 06:16:03 GMT

I saw the ad not before SITC (which you couldn't drag me to see) :-) but before Indiana Jones. I found it to be stunning and moving, and no one, not even the chattiest of kids, said a word during the whole ad.

As a person who is proud to serve vets as an employee of the VA, I think its message was a fine one - that Marines help stand guard over our nation - "America the Beautiful" - to protect our country and our freedoms. Still, we can't expect too much from it; the ad was conceived by a marketing department - it's still an ad. Just as any commercial for any thing or service at all doesn't show all the aspects (especially the less marketable) of what it is portraying, an ad for the Marines wouldn't probably show the staggering realities of war, instead, it tries to capture the rewarding aspects of being part of such a special group, so young people might be compelled to join - and for those who wouldn't consider it, it is meant simply to reaffirm the Marines' enshrined place in American hearts as a special breed that have a mystique and a camraderie outsiders can never understand - it's another way of saying "the few, the proud."

I think what the author is trying to say is that she feels the ad is too bright and cheery and doesn't really capture the true sacrifice of the Marines (especially during a time of conflict). I truly believe the author when she says she means no disrespect - in fact, I think she is saying the ad isn't respectful or "real" enough. However, as I said before, an ad is still an ad - of course it can't capture everything about being a Marine...that's what I think her article fell down. How on earth could we expect it to? It's a tiny snippet, showing us moving imagery about the strength, tradition and honor of the Marines and their relationship to our country. As commercials go, especially for the armed services, it was definitely one of the best I have seen, and the most respectful of the core values of the Marines - no "get money for college," no "learn valuable skills, do awesome stuff" no rock climbing, or fighting dragons or knights - just a symbolic representation of what the Marines do for our country, in their style: quiet, not flashy, but flawless and silently commanding peoples' respect. From the young Marines to the old I have met, you learn that Marines do more with less; they are the first ones in, and the last ones to leave - truly an honorable tradition.

As a lifelong civilian with friends and relatives in the service, my advice would be that if you truly want to hear the story of a Marine, all you have to do is talk to one, and listen to one, and be sure to honor them for their service...so, to all the Marines and vets of all branches...thank you again.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

L.Kelley — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 07:58:13 GMT

Just wanted to say THANK YOU to all those responses. I have seen that commercial, and indeed the pride swells as I think of the quality of those who fill the ranks of the Marines, and also the other forces, including the Air Force.

My husband and father are retired USAF reservists. I can remember the pride I had as a child seeing my daddy in his dress blues (he was with the Naval Air then). There are many ways we can have pride in our country. We are proud that we can speak our mind, we are proud of the beauty of our natural beauty, wel are proud that our constitution has stood for 220 years...we are proud of our flag, and the men who defend our freedom.

I feel sorry for those who scoff and mock those who show their courage and commitment by serving in our armed forces. I for one am thankful, and proud to be numbered with them.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Sean Azzaro, San Antonio, Texas — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:44:01 GMT

Wow, I fear you missed the entire point of the ad. I think the ad simply points out that we have a beautiful country worth defending. The contrast of the beauty of the US and the presence of Marines is a reminder that our freedom to enjoy our nation's beauty came at a cost. To those who understand the deeper ideals of loyalty, commitment, and self-sacrifice, this commercial is quite compelling. I'm sorry you missed it.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

fletc3her, Seattle, Washington — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:34:18 GMT

A big part of military recruiting is convincing the parents that they shouldn't oppose their children enlisting. These ads are a part of that push. They glamorize the military in an abstract way so parents can focus on service to country rather than the gritty realities their loved ones will face.

I think it's funny that a Marine would complain about someone being "elite". i thought the Marines were all about being the best at what they do! Surely, we should all strive to be elite at whatever our calling.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Keith Price, Suffolk, United Kingdom — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 10:52:46 GMT

5-year conflict? I have been AD USAF since 1990, and have been to the Middle East almost every year since, supporting Operation Northern/Southern Watch, OEF, OIF and others. While I have nothing but pride in our brothers and sisters in the other services, and do not envy their 15 month tours in Afghanistan and Iraq, please do not limit our involvement in those areas to a measly "5-year" timeframe. Most Airman who have been AD for more than 10 years can claim residence in the Middle East for as much time as we have spent over there. And the USMC add in question is awe-inspiring. It relates how the USMC are the unsung heroes of the US Military. They rarely garner any praise from the public/media, yet the USMC is often the target of rare cases of criminal actions. I have nothing but love for the USA, USN and USMC!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 22:40:22 GMT

As a 17-yr Marine (yes, the whole Iraq conflict, from the start, and still going strong) I can tell you that we have one purpose, and one purpose only. To kill people, as many as we can, as fast as we can, with as much brutality as we can muster. It's not fancy drills on the mountain side or any of that movie crap.

As much as we in the Corps would like to believe we're defending freedom, and free speech, and the good things my brothers have referred to above, the truth is, we're fighting for corporate profits. Always have.

The Marine Corps, since our founding in 1777, has never entered a conflict to serve democracy or freedom, or individual rights. Get this straight: we ONLY fight when the corporations or the very rich feel their interests are at risks.

I write this as a Marine Lieutenant Colonel with a doctorate in American History.

We need to help truly patriotic Americans wake up! The glorious stuff that so many of you seem to believe about the U.S. military is just an elaborate fairy tale, fed to you again and again, by selfish politicians and Madison Avenue. It has NO connection to reality.

We have one more chance to save our beloved country...we must end this War for Oil and demilitarize our nation or all will be lost.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

James Killian — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:18:20 GMT

I think you are indeed the demographic that was being aimed at. Besides the person actually considering service, who next is most important in the decision process? The person's mother.

Too many mothers would rather have their child join a satanic cult it seems these days than serve honorably in one of the service branches.

Is it so unreasonable to see advertising targeting the parents of potential recruits?

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Rebecca H., San Diego, CA — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 15:00:40 GMT

Just wanted to encourage you to keep writing blogs like this. I think some of the comments on here are mean-spirited in spite of their goal of representing the USMC. I'm an officer in the Marine Corps serving on active duty in VA and I'm a SITC fan. I saw the ad and thought it was lovely. The silent drill team are made up of some of our best Marines. I think those who enter the USMC are pretty well informed about the "realities" of that service, but I think this ad spoke to another part of the pride we feel in the service and the general esprit de corps we share as Marines. Additionally, many are overlooking the fact that the Marines are actively looking for athletic, intelligent and independant young women...many of whom are likely to be SITC movie-goers. Hope you have a lovely day.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

A Vet, NY NY — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 18:49:06 GMT

The author must be from San Francisco where the Marines were REFUSED permission to film this ad and had to use a backdrop. Typical of the liberals infesting the media

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

John Olsakovsky — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 19:11:46 GMT

To Eric LaCourse,

A foxhole doesn't know the difference between a Marine or a Soldier. The Army is not allabout technical training or free education. The same sacrifices are demanded of anyone who puts on his country's uniform. However, the commercial is great and all the other comments above are dead on. Semper Fi!

John "O
US Army, Ret.
Vietnam '66-'67

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Elf — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 22:03:15 GMT

Wow. Just wow.

I have not served myself and would never have been accepted had I ever applied due to physical limitations. I've got a nephew serving currently in the Army in Iraq and I am prouder of him than of anyone else I know. My father did a stint in the Navy in the 50’s. I've worked with reserves and former members of all the military branches and all have been among the most honorable people I could ever hope to meet.

That said, if the responses here are truly representative of the typical Marine today, then I am ashamed that this is the best my country has to offer. The vast majority of the responses have viciously attacked the author for utterly baseless reasons. I doubt most of the respondents even bothered reading the entire article, and based on the grammar, spelling and invective of many of the responses, I doubt many of them are even capable of reading it in the first place. There are missives attacking the writer's patriotism, her political position and her upbringing, absolutely none of which could possibly be implied by anything she wrote in the article. She wrote absolutely nothing but praise for the Corps and for those serving.

However, for having the mere temerity to question whether the ad, which she heartily praised, was effective in the venue in which it was shown, she has been savagely attacked. Amazing, the nerve of her, eh? Many of the servicemen, servicewomen and their loved ones who know what the Corps is all about said that, yes, it is an effective ad. But they have, in marketing terms, already purchased the product. Others have said that previous ads did help in inspiring them to enlist, which is proof right there that such ads can be successful. A hard-core marketing guru would follow up by asking what film the ad preceded because information like that is the cornerstone of his business.

Certainly the ad is effective at instilling a sense of pride and patriotism in those who can appreciate its beauty and meaning. (Go and read the article again. The author loved the ad. Really, she did.) But the article is asking absolutely valid questions which few here have attempted to answer without injecting their own personal biases. Simply put, the question is: For those who have not purchased the product but may be interested in doing so, is the ad effective in conveying the essence of the product being marketed, and assuming it does, is it doing so in a cost-effective manner? These are questions appropriate to any ad campaign in any venue.

The honor, sacrifice and courage of the Marine Corps are above questioning by anyone. The marketing of the Marine Corps is not. Thank you to all of you who serve now and have served in the past, but please do not embarrass yourselves further.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Soldier, NC — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 23:10:12 GMT

I served in the Army, and even I had to calm myself down after reading this ignorant and shallow 'review'. I have the utmost respect for Marines, especially after serving with them in OIF.

The goal of this ad isn't to present something that is false, but to show potential recruits what the result of their service (and the purpose of it) could mean. I got chills when I first saw this ad... because it is about pride, the pride of serving one's country and defending all that it, and it's people, stand for and have upheld for hundreds of years.

Unless you have served, you have no clue what it means to serve. And judging from your movie-viewing preferences... I would say that ad was a waste of time for you and the rest of that audience; you can not comprehend its meaning.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Bryan Smith, Charlotte, MI — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 03:46:22 GMT

Allison, I hope you've read all of the responses your article generated. In doing so, I urge you take stock in what are the opinions of a wide cross section of Americans. The commercial you write about presents a very accurate metaphor for the team oriented dicipline and wonderfully deadly precision of the United States Marine. They truly are the tip of America's sword, and without them, we are hopelessly outgunned in a very dangerous world. God Bless The United States Marine Corps.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Dale Russom, Jackson, TN — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 15:42:43 GMT

My heart was in my throat as I watched this ad. It was so beautifully done and I feel proud that our fine service men and women are out there protecting us, whether here or abroad. I think your missed the point concerning the appropriateness of this ad being show before this movie. I think it should be shown before any and all movies to remind us of the sacrifice these fine young people are willing to make for their and our country.
I think the Marine Silent Drill Team is one of the most beautiful demonstrations of the hard work, discipline and dedication it takes to be in any branch of the military. May God bless all of our servicemen and women.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Proud Marine Mom — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 22:48:29 GMT

The first thing I want to say is, Marine is always capitalized. Secondly, I am the proud MOM of a female Marine. Ms Linn, why were you confused by this ad being shown before your movie? You feel it was not relevant? Is it not relevant for ladies in your age group to be reminded of the people that fight for your freedom? Is it not relevant for you to be grateful you live in a country where you can write what you think and not be sent to prison, killed or worse and to see an example of the men and women that make that possible? Advertising is expensive, but you have a problem with the Marines spending money to show how they feel about their country. Designer handbags and designer shoes are way over priced, but that doesn't keep people from buying them. No body with any sense would enlist because of an ad, and the ones that would, the Marines doesn't want nor do they need. I'm sorry you have been a target of the Marines, but as you can read, the USMC IS NOT like other services. The men and yes, even women, of the Marine Corps are very passionate about THEIR Corps. The ladies on SATC couldn't really afford all those things they buy and their apartments in New York in real life could they? If the ad would have shown you the truth, that the Marine Corps helps to rebuild scools, roads, hospitals, uncovers mass amounts of arms and detroys them and protects the weak, would you even have believed it? The Marines do not choose the battles they fight in, that is directed by Congress, without a majority vote there would have been no war. It's all well and good for congress to say they were tricked into voting. That is a cop-out and a joke. All the service menr and women of the USA want is to be apprecaited for the work they do in keeping all of us safe. Marines do not join the Corps to wear the dress blue uniform, just like policemen and firemen do not join their forces to wear their uniform. They have a higher calling and so do Marines.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Rosanna Davis, Pendleton, Oregon — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 08:15:17 GMT

As a former Navy brat I agree with all these folks, you missed the point. I have talked with all of my children about enlisting in some branch of the military. I told them the truth as well, Its dangerous at times but it also can be very fullfilling. My whole family has been in the military. To all of you who have served, are serving or will serve.... Thank you and God Bless you all.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mary Ruth Cummins, Terre Haute, IN — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 23:49:06 GMT

“America’s Marines,” is lovely, but its beauty risks being disingenuous."
As the wife of a Marine and the mother to two Marines I'd like to comment on your review. The Marines are all about tradition and brotherhood and America. I can't think of a commercial that shows that better than America's Marines. They are an elite brotherhood and the group that did the commercial is the elite of the elite and a symbol to ALL Marines. The hours and hours of drill that is done for those perfect looking Marines to do that perfect looking drill is something that makes them the warriors that they are. The symbolism of maybe, just maybe, being good enough to "be one of them" is what America's Marines is all about. I am proud of my sons' decisions to become Marines. Unless you have a child who may decide to join the Military or have had any experience with the Military, you just couldn't understand what that commercial means. Lucky for you the Marines will defend to the death your freedom to write whatever you want in your column.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Courtney — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 13:00:09 GMT

Looking at this from an advertising standpoint (I'm an ad major), I don't get her point at all. The fact that I'm marrying a Marine aside, the Marines branding is honor and patriotism. If she regularly blogs about advertising than I'm assuming she's familiar with the business and understands the concept of building a brand. So I don't understand why she doesn't understand what the commercial is supposed to accomplish. She said herself that the commercial made her feel patriotic. That's exactly what it's supposed to do because that's the branding of the Marine Corps. Recruitment advertisements (or ANY ads) are certainly not meant for people to sit there and say, "HEY! You know what? They're completely right, I need to join the Marines." When you see a toothpaste ad you don't want to immediately go out and buy that toothpaste. But when you go to the store which kind are you going to buy? The brand you identify with from the ads you've seen. The point of the commercials is to make a connection with possible recruits. Think about all the commercials you've seen. In an ideal advertising world, if you decide you're going to join the military you're going to either join because A) You want to feel in control of your future and travel the world, B) You want to feel independant and like you make a difference or C) You want to defend your country, feel like a patriot and do what few others will. Think about the recruitment ads you've seen. If you happen to fall under A you'll most likely join the Navy ("Accelerate Your Life"). If you fall under B you'll probably choose the Army ("Army of One"). If you're a C type person you'll choose the Marine Corps ("The Few, The Proud, The Marines"). Does that make sense? So to me, her arguement that the commercial won't generate recruits is ridiculous. And folks, the Marines don't just take men. They take women too. Maybe a more female focused ad should have been put in front of Sex in the City but I don't think it's completely off base to think that you would put a Marine Corps ad in front of a chick flick to gain female recruits.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

V the poor but effiznt Ranger — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 02:31:38 GMT

I'm from the Philippines and I have lots of shaky comments regarding your country the U.S. of A. But I have one solid comment about the U.S.Marines - they are among the very best who keeps this world in line. They help hold back the encroaching darkness that intends to devour our future.
"We struggle so that our history may become the salvation of our children".

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 16:02:15 GMT

I just want to say that it is nice to read all of these comments. Out of all of them I only found one that actually agreed with anything Ms. Linn had to say.

It makes me so proud to be an American after reading all of these comments. Our Marines are beautiful souls who fight the fight no matter what. My nephew is one and my son will probably follow him. Knowing that I can remember exactly what I felt when I first saw that ad. It brought tears to my eyes.

I was proud of my nephew. Proud of my son. Proud of every man in my family who stood up and served their country. The Marines protect us, from sea to shining sea.

I'm sorry that you have to bash them to make yourself feel better.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

auntiem em San Diego, CA — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 17:52:44 GMT

Did you see the same ad that I saw? I saw the beautiful United States shown in all its glory with our fine United States Marines exemplifying the purpose of their commitment to the land of the Free and the home of the Brave.
SEMPER FI!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

KK, Seattle WA — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 04:45:37 GMT

For me - the ad represents the unity of the Corp. It's not an "army of one", you are part of something bigger than yourself, doing something that would be impossible by yourself. My ex-husband was a Marine, and he, like anyone does, would gumble from time to time about his job, or the people he worked with, but each time it came down to it - they melded into a well-oiled machine that thought and executed as a whole, and did it well. The unit that they would become was so amazing and awesome to see.

When I see the perfection of the drill team, I see countless individuals that through dedication, training, patriotism and faith, have become one. And each person in that line, pretty as it is, is still holding a weapon and standing united in front of what we hold beautiful and sacred - and the line will die to defend it.

To me, that is the message - regardless of when it plays.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Proud of my Marines, Nashville, TN — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 16:49:02 GMT

This article is a joke, right? Two of my best friends are Marines, and THEY appreciate the commercial. I wonder if the writer of this article knows how much discipline even goes into the sort of armed drill shown in the ad. I agree with the Marines who commented- this ad shows the honor and pride of the Corps. It is more than an advertisment- it is a statement and declaration of what it really is to be a Marine. Have some respect, people.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Laurie Wall, NJ — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 17:53:04 GMT

I for one want to defend this writer....I don't want my children to be taken in by this sort of propoganda. Let them see what the real deal is perhaps some war scenes with kids getting blown to bits or coming back with body parts missing and then show the pretty scenery with the dress blues. Let young people make up their minds if they want to risk their lives. Don't give them the PG rated version...give' em the X.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

John Ainsworth, Pearland, TX — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 19:06:04 GMT

The truth of the matter is people don't want to see what Marines do in combat. It is primal and conducted in such a manner that no civilian could even begin to understand. So we give them what they want to see, so they can continue to live their narrow-minded, guilt-free lives. Remember cousins...freedom isn't free and crack kills.

Semper Fidelis Teufelhunden!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Former Sailor, Wisconsin — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:16:48 GMT

Wow, way to irritate all the Marines, lady. You also missed the obvious link between the target audience, (chix)and motherhood. Moms still play an important role in what Junior does with his life so casting the jarheads in a positive light goes a long way towards Mom supporting an offspring's decision to join the military.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Kenneth Cavness — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 23:49:13 GMT

You know, there were a lot of persuasive points here as to why the Marines did a good job with this commercial, but there was also a lot of extreme snobbishness and elitism displayed here. Were I a Marine, I'd slap down the idiots who started out castigating Allison.

And a good Marine doesn't lord their protection of our freedoms in our faces. They know they're protecting them, we know they're protecting them, and it really doesn't need to be said. If it does need to be said, you've already lost.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Theresa, Vandalia, MO — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 16:14:09 GMT

I am a mother of 6 and two of them wanted to serve. My oldest son aspired to be an Army Ranger, however an injury has kept him from fulfilling that dream. My other son, who is 15 years old, has spoken of nothing else then becoming a Marine. I am proud of both of my sons. They are both very much aware of the consequences of serving their country. Both good and bad and are willing to make that sacrafice. They both feel it would be a prevledge to serve. I am greatful to all thoughs that are doing a job I myself couldn't do. So thank you from the bottom of my heart to all those men and women that serve OUR country.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jim, San Diego, CA — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 16:46:40 GMT

But the military discriminates against gays. Other more advanced countries don't consider gays in the military an issue (Israel, Spain, Canada, etc). But the US military misses the boat in regards.

While a former Navy officer, I am proud of my service to my country, but not proud of how this country discriminates against its own people.

We need to set the example, not promote division and bigotry.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jeff, Colorado Springs — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 22:00:04 GMT

Hey Jim, by "advanced" do you mean the countries that do not have an "all-volunteer" military?

If you want every homophobic Marine and soldier to hit the gates after their next enlistment, try that whole gay military thing. I'm sure the Navy guys more "progressive" than the rest of the military.

As an Air Force Retiree, I also am proud of my service to my country.

Did Bill Clinton not make great strides for the gays with "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"? Until gays get into positions of GREAT power, then "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" is all you're going to get. I'm sure they will welcome gays when the military institutes the draft again.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

TXMarine in SC — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 01:08:05 GMT

Joining the Corps is more about feelings than anything else. The other 3 main branches commercials mainly show you jobs you can do while serving. The Marine's commercials usually do not show jobs...they convey a feeling of confidence, dedication, sense of purpose and an esprit de corps that the world is sorely lacking. Young people do not need to see war or jobs they can do while serving. They need to see the reason why they serving. The Corps' commercials do that. And as for showing it before Sex in the City they realize they need to help the young people in America sell their parents on what their children can achieve in themselves.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

robert Laird, Abilene, Texas — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 02:35:36 GMT

I have never been a marine but I know what Marines stand for...Duty, Honor, Country. This commercial will not cause me to join up (too old) but it will help me remember to thank a Marine, Soldier, Airman or Sailor for their sacrifice.
Robert Laird
former Air Force Brat

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Grateful American — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 06:23:30 GMT

I wonder if the author of this article has noticed that not a single person who's left a comment agrees with her.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

CW, Arlington OH — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 08:03:48 GMT

Please don't label this article as "propaganda." When we are being sold on everything in this nation on a big screen, at least the Marine Corps is honest and straightforward about our intentions. As a female and former Marine, I think it is wonderful to inject a small amount of reality into our citizens' lives once in a while. I saw the commercial in the theater and was touched- we Marines fought hard to get there, and as a previous post mentions our drill team works incredibly hard to execute their maneuvers. I would not be the same person I am today without the Corps and resent hearing negative media images about something that is life-changing. Yes, sometimes life-changing in different ways- but nonetheless has made a positive impact on my life specifically and I celebrate it being shared with civilians who will never understand what the Corps means. Out of all the offensive things in our press and media, this is what you pick to berate? You've got to be kidding me. The next time the Corps offends you, go get a popcorn and think about all the men and women who are dying for YOU right now- could we not take a minute to recognize them?

Semper Fi

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

SFC Smith Lake Worth, FL — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 11:56:56 GMT

Allie:
Been to Kuwait? Haiti? How about a visit to Arlington? I have.

If after viewing the video you do not have a feeling of pride, gratitude and respect for those who wear the uniform, whether USMC or any other branch of the service where such risk life, limb and everything we hold dear as a nation, then it is lost on you and likely explains the nonesense you wrote. Fortunately, there are always those who have, do and will get it.

All The Way
82nd Airborne
Ft. Bragg, NC

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Dave James OKC, Oklahoma — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:08:53 GMT

To the lady who complained about the ad... If you're able to read this, thank a teacher, if you're reading this in english...thank a MARINE !!!!!!!

GySgt. David James USMC (ret.) 1976-1996

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Candy, Selma, NC — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:00:18 GMT

I love the commercial. It shows what is great about America. In a country where few people take pride in their appearance it gives a great impression of young, movitivated American men. I am tired of seeing slobs on tv commercials, i.e unkept hair, unshaven, shirts not tuck in, beer guts...what do these "slobs" represent? Nothin productive.

You go Marines!!!Keep producing the videos for they are positive to America, young people and to everyone.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Hi Paknik, Atlanta Georgia — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 20:23:37 GMT

You, like many others have a distorted view or our value system. What you should be questioning is the program "Sex in the City" what message it sends to those that watch. Our taste and values are skewed so that all messages today must have a sexual conitation behind it or shown in it. Honor, discipline, courage, self pride, respect for one self and others, like marines, should be mimicked and applauded, and shown from sea to shinning sea.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Linda Milroy Kamloops, British Columbia — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 06:38:49 GMT

Though I have not see this advertisement for the Marine Corps, from the description, I know it shows some of the reasons we are thankful for those who have stepped up and taken on the burden of protecting our freedoms and rights.

I am a Navy brat, from Pensacola,Florida and NAS Pensacola had Marines stationed there for as long as I can remember. To all our service men past, present and future ... Know you are respected for your choices, you are in the prayers of so many of us citizens of the greatest country in the world and although the media in all forms tends to report the worst they can "dig up", we support our troops and all servicemen 100%. They are the reason I can reply to this abomination of someones unintelligent and useless article.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Kate, Kansas City — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 17:05:32 GMT

I am an 11-year veteran, Army brat, and current wife of an Army soldier who's spent his share of months in iraq. So, now that we've established my right to be here in this conversation (it would seem that, from all previous posts, only VETERANS or those currently serving are allowed an opinion in America these days--how dictator-y!)I have a message for all you unimaginative people (probably white, Republican males, every last one of you) squallering on about "oh, the Corps!" Here it is: We can all be proud of our service. Here's a response to another popular theme: Your big bad Marine self being deployed doesn't buy my freedom. Nope, it doesn't. So don't feel like aggrieved victims because all the rest of us useless Americans haven't slept in foxholes (by choice, I might add). Get over your enormous selves. You can't berate or guilt someone into agreeing with you. The biggest travesty here is that thee writer did NOT lambast your beloved Corps. She was actually astute enough to recognize the oldest trick in the book for recruitment: play on people's sense of patriotism. The numbers tell the story--the Marines are suffering for recruitment and retention. THere's no problem with being proud of your service. Just remember it doesn't buy you the right to feel like everyone else owes you something for it. Trust me, I've lived it.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Wayne, Enterprise, Al — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 19:02:33 GMT

Ms. Linn first let me take issue with your comment "what's right and what's wrong with the Marines". I was a soldier for many years, I had several occasions to serve with Marines. There is nothing wrong with the Marines.
People have been pretty hard on you for your article I'm sure you ment no disrespect but, you really don't get it. You don't understand advertising and you don't understand the Marines nor the men and women they wish to recruit.
The point of the commercial was to get people thinking about the Marines. Advertising isn't always a direct message. The other part about understanding the Marines and those they want to join well, I'm afraid you may never be able to grasp that.
Like I said, I'm just an old soldier. That commercial brought tears to my eyes.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

n. munson, eastern washington — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 23:53:30 GMT

I thought the commercial was beautiful. It gave me chills and just about brought me to tears. I have many family members who have served and are still serving, and a cousin who was killed by sniper fire in Iraq a year and a half ago. The commercial was very appropriate and represents everything the Marines defend, fight for, and die for.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Chris - NY — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 13:50:37 GMT

It is because of the marines and ALL of our other military branches that you have the ability to write something as absolutely ridiculous as you have just written. Continue to discourage enlistment and then let me know how you feel when your Freedom of Speech has been taken away. It does take someone bigger than you or MSNBC to protect our country without worrying about being politically correct in their advertising. I thought the ad was beautiful even if I did only see it on my home television screen. I believe we will take this ad from its source - someone that wasted their time going to see a movie as shallow as Sex & The City.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Sgt, USMC, Michigan — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 21:41:47 GMT

Crazy! This is why civilians dont get us Marines. We dont join becuase of a commercial, there is a far bigger reason. That commercial showed you what we were fighting for, what we were protecting, you obviously just dont get that. Semper Fi all!!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Aaron Kohl, Sweet grass, montana — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 22:47:11 GMT

Yep, another ad to coerce our underprevilidged children to join the forces so they have can place food on the table and educate themselves.
Howcome no one talks about the wounded veterans still? The amount of money spent on this commercial can surely build some good hospitals for our wounded soldiers.
What an awe to see these commercial of a beautiful country with men in uniforms and hiding the facts how harsh their lives are when they are killing and being targeted in Iraq and Afghanistan.
You can only be so insensitive to us Marines who have been left to fend for ourselves and living the horrors of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Bravo!! But still I am Semper Fidelis but hoping the new government feels our pain and doesn't send us into the world that has nothing but benefit the Republican oil tycoons.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

CYNTHIA FIG, T.,VA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:14:55 GMT

TO ALL WHO HAVE SERVED AND CONTINUE TO SERVE AS MARINES "SEMPER-FI" AND OOOORAAAHHH!!!!

Even after we leave the battlefield there is still a battle to be fought here at home against the MEDIA and the ignorance of those who will NEVER truly understand why we serve!

I appreciate ALL of the positive comments that have been posted regarding this RIDICULOUS article!!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Cowgirl Up! Texas — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:45:10 GMT

Wow. Again, liberal writer just has no clue at all.

Serving the country is an act that is selfless. Our men and women in uniform are the best of all of us - everyone; from the Mom raising her child in safety to the geek playing video games to the liberal bashing the country. These Marines put it all on the line daily for us.

What the writer doesn't get at all is that his aspertion of "this country ...in conflict for 5 years...making an agreement to put your life on the line..." is what soldier and sailor have ALWAYS DONE. Joining the Marines in a time of peace - lets say 1947 - would you know that the Korean War was around the corner? What about 1963...VietNam....1989...Persian Gulf... And so it goes for those who serve.

Don't patronize the American people by manipulating us to see YOUR view - that America is not the best and brightest country. We are.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jen F. Usher, Dillwyn, VA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 22:46:50 GMT

The MARINE DRILL TEAM VIDEO is BEAUTIFUL and INSPIRING, and UPLIFTING.

Semper Fi...

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Karl Balk — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 22:55:05 GMT

I'm glad to read that I am not the only one to feel that this ad is spot on.
This is what serving your country is all about. No one is joining the Marines ignorant of the dangers.
A former Marine

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mary Ruth Cummins Terre Haute, IN — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 04:38:22 GMT

I did not add in my first comment, the Marines are always looking for "a few good men" and a "few good women". The Marines are a very smart group of people...why wouldn't they have a commercial before one of the most awaited movies of the year? Like I said those Marines....smart!

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Jessica, Killeen, TX — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 03:08:52 GMT

Oo, ouch, being snapped at by a whole world of Marines is not what you want. I have never served as a Marine. I'm a Soldier. I have a profound respect for the Marine Corps and the pride they have in the Corps. Even I feel a sense of pride when I watch the ad, after which I ask myself: why didn't I ever think of the Marines? Don't tell the Army.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

'Kill Bill', Upper Darby, PA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 02:17:33 GMT

In all fairness, there's not much in the way of a battlefield ANYwhere for a marine to serve in, not unless the U.S. decides to back Georgia against Russia, and I can't really see that happening. Of course, I do love to point out how borderline obsessed marines are with their looks, to the point where i've teased several, comparing them to the Nazi's and saying they should question their sexuality.
To be fair, I have considered and even went to DEP into the marines, but apparently 22% body fat at 174 and 5'6" was too "big", so i have since decided to serve my country as a city police officer. Its just a shame that that commercial isn't really effective. The golden days of the U.S. citizens finding glory in winning no matter what are gone, lost in the muddle of 'fairness,' with corporate CEO's now holding more clout in our government than the people.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Dante Rodriguez — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 03:03:16 GMT

As a self-described decadent thirty something, I feel offended by this idea that the Marines are somehow defending my freedom. Vietnam through Iraq - are any of these conflicts about a direct material threat to United States soil?

No matter how honorable the individuals in the Marines are (and I believe they are), they have to face the fact that they're the human shield for U.S. foreign policy.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mo New Lenox IL — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 04:30:19 GMT

The author must have no pride in her own country. The Marines, the Army, the Navy and the Air Force are protecting the back drops of this video. Not only the land but the people. Not every man or woman will make it through boot camp to become a marine. My youngest son is a proud marine serving two tours in Iraq to protect all. My oldest son is in the Air Force after graduating Western Ill Univ. Many people are agianst recruiting in the poor areas, I would rather have my son or daughter recruited by the service than by gang leaders.

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Garry Williamson — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:40:27 GMT

the unity in these responces has brought a tear to an old Navy guys eyes

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Mike Newman, San Antonio, Tx. — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 03:57:49 GMT

Honor, courage and commitment. The Corps is not a job- it is a way of life. We are expected to do so much with so little because we made an oath to each other and the country (you) that we WILL accomplish the mission.

The line of Marines you witnessed is emblematic of what we do so well. While America sleeps at night, somebody must stand guard to let you sleep.

Ronald Reagan once said something like while most people go to sleep wondering if they've made a difference, the Marines don't have that problem. Although you probably didn't mean to say it like you did, you're welcome.

Semper Fi

Sex, the City … and the Marines?

Barbara Hernandez, Oregon, MO — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 13:50:26 GMT

I have 3 grown sons...all active-duty Navy. My youngest is serving in Iraq...as a volunteer, as did my middle son. Even though they are not Marines, the ad speaks for them, too, in a sense. It is, after all, about pride, honor, and service to our country. I guess not everyone cares much about those things any more and feel the need to talk down to those of us who still believe in those things. That's too bad. Though I have never been a Marine...Semper Fi. You all have my love and respect. 3XNavy Mom