Welcome all....
"They were called many names....Brown Eyes, Mac, or Blondie and they were held in high esteem, with much gratitude, and remembered warmly. These were the Navy nurses and corpsmen who served abroad the hospital ships USS Consolation, USS Repose and USS Haven and in the hospital in Yokosuka during the Korean War. They took care of their wounded charges, mostly Marines with dignity, passion, warmth, and outstanding nursing skills." Quiet Heroes
June 24, 2000: Today a very special
luncheon was held at the Quantico Marine Corps Base
in
the
Officers Club. Its purpose was twofold. First it
commemorated the 50th anniversary of the
dedicated service performed by the United
States Navy Nurses & Corpsmen who served
in the Korean War. Secondly it was the launch of a powerful book
about these "angels of
mercy",
authored by
Frances Omori, Commander, U.S. Navy,
entitled
"Quiet Heroes
Navy
Nurses of the Korean War 1950-1953 Far East Command". Click
on the book cover above to learn the story behind its
creation.
As guests arrived, 
they were
greeted
by
Marilyn
Ewing Affleck, one of the actual nurses whose
story is profiled in the book, or Commander
Omori.
They
were invited to sign the
"Guest Book" along with several copies of "Quiet Heroes".
Placed in strategic spots,
around the reception, 
were displays where one
could view
photos and remember
old friends,
places, and times from the war.
There were even maps,
where the nurses could
indicate where they had served.
Personal
photo albums were available
for viewing, during the entire event, 
as well.
And.... there was much
excitement
in finding oneself in the
book
"Quiet
Heroes"
.
People were just amazed
and 
spellbound by that book !
Of 
course this event had its
share of paparazzi
present.
The reception lasted from
1200 to
1300hrs.
Many
"reunions" took place but the most poignant one occurred when S. Sgt. James Libonati,
USMC(Ret) was reunited with his
"Angel of
Mercy", Marilyn
Ewing Affleck for the first time in 50 years ! Marilyn had cared
for him when he arrived wounded at the Naval
Hospital Yokosuka.
There were plenty of
smiles,
hugs and a few damp eyes all around.
Here now are some more photo highlights of the opening reception.....
It is almost time for the luncheon so click here to continue.......
©2000 Chip Feise Location Photography All Rights Reserved
Digi-vents would like to thank David & Adam Litvin for providing many of the fine digital photographs displayed on these pages.
visitors that honor & salute all of you Navy Nurses, Corpsmen &
Marines who served in the Korean
War....Thank You !