A Life of Service: From Korea to Vietnam

George Garner reflects on 20 years in the Marines and Army, honoring brotherhood, sacrifice, and enduring memories.

“We Honor Veterans Program” is VNAHSR’s way of honoring veterans receiving Hospice services to offer gratitude and recognition for their dedicated service in their final days. Our wonderful hospice volunteers pinned and gave certificates ~50 veterans in 2025. Here is George’s story.

In 1953, during the Korean war, I went to a recruiting office to join the Marines. As I was only 17 years old, I was told I had to go home and have my parents approve of and sign my recruitment papers.

My Dad, who was a WWII Navy veteran, looked at me and said, “This is not the Navy!” I told him the Marines were part of the Navy. He told me he hoped I knew what I was getting into, but signed the papers. My mother cried and did not approve, but knew there was no stopping me. She knew I was continuing my family’s service to our country.

I was not prepared for the Marines boot camp on Paris Island. It was very difficult, and many of us left or did not succeed. But I did, and was sent to Korea. After five years, I got out and went home.

I was 22 years old and was not prepared for civilian life. After 120 days, I decided to re-enlist in the U.S. Army. If I had re-enlisted within 90 days, I would have been able to keep my previous rank, but I had to start all over again at the rank of Private. At least I could keep my previous years of service and did not have to do basic training again.

I was sent to Vietnam. I experienced some very difficult situations. I will never forget Phi (seen with me in the picture). He was a Vietnamese Scout assigned to our unit. I remember that he always had a smile on his face and seemed to enjoy working with me. Phi knew the country and the people. Many of us would not have made it without his help. He saved my life once during a skirmish. I do not know what happened to him after I left Vietnam, but I will never forget him. I received a Bronze Star during that time, but don’t remember all the details. I did the best I could to take care of my fellow soldiers.

I will always remember the children whether in Korea or Vietnam. They seem to suffer the most. I believe that it’s true in any war. Many were hungry and orphaned, so me and the soldiers in my unit would often try to give them food.

I was assigned to many places, and I had many experiences during my time in the service. They include being a drill Sargent and training instructor to both enlisted and officers. I raised a family – sometimes they could join me on Army posts, other times they remained stateside when I went overseas.

I left the service in 1973 after serving for 20 years. After that I joined the VFW and American Legion.

I feel touched and honored to receive this pin and certificate as part of the “We Honor Veterans Program”.