THESE buttons were worn BUTTONS

The word unserviceable is defined as useless, unusable

These buttons are unserviceable. These buttons were worn by someone whose right hand swore a oath to protect and defend.

These buttons were removed, but not retired, they were unserviceable a lot like me and tossed aside no longer of value to service. These were worn on a set of blues as They escorted a young woman marine to her home. I stood tall proud and tall as taps were played in the snow and presented the flag. Theses buttons touched the flag close to my heart and I held back the tears as I said the the words no parent wants to hear “On behalf of a grateful nation“.

These buttons were worn by a young woman marine sgt drill instructor in 1979. Who pushed the limits of her body and now fights to find her place These buttons were worn by a SgtMaj taking command for the first time 2013 of the oldest post in the corps. These buttons were worn proudly at morning colors and graduations. Retirements, enlistments and re-enlistments, they saw the beginning of new traditions and passing of old.

They stood tall and proud Arlington, while taps were played, these buttons were shiny and new as we honored those who never saw this country again. These buttons with the eagle, globe and anchor flew with pride with every climb and place. They are the right of passage of every recruit earning the title Marine.

They witnessed friends no longer able to fight the good fight. Weak and physically unable to fight to live they ask one thing Put me me in my uniform and make sure my eagles flying straight before you lay me to to rest.

These buttons have history, they are not unserviceable like me. The fight is in your heart but I no shine , don’t put we away and discard me in a box or a bag. Don’t discard me without due care, I served you proudly. These buttons were worn by our sisters, daughters, mothers, fathers and sons. These buttons once shiny and new were saved by a few good marines. They were earned by blood, sweat and tears. Don’t them away, hold on to them and remember they earned the right.