Special Performer at Oceanside

January 13th, 10:25am January 13th, 10:25am

Ambershay Cooper

Leatherneck

Every Marine has two birthdays, his own and Nov. 10. He or she celebrates both each year. On Nov. 10, 1951, at Camp Pendleton combat training facility at Oceanside, Calif., there was a special celebration at which just one performer was to appear. She was to sing and dance.
Thousands of mostly very young Marines were at Pendleton that November. Most would soon be in Korea and many would not return. The performer arrived by helicopter by herself and after a short meeting with some brass, two trusted and savvy noncommissioned officers were assigned to the young lady to help her prepare for the show. This was tough duty, including spending two hours with the performer helping her get ready.
While chatting, one Marine sergeant and the performer realized they were both 25 years old. The Marine sergeant was my brother Sgt Mike Capriola. Mike is now 90 years old and lives in Sarasota, Fla. The performer was Marilyn Monroe who died in 1962 at the age of 36.
Cpl Charles E. Capriola Jr., USMC
1953-56
Bennington, Vt.