Fighting Fourth

by Jay Julian of Fourth Marine Division Association ( 10-Oct-2014 )

Greetings from the Fighting Fourth: The Fourth Marine Division Association is actively soliciting funds for their final roll call. I am acting on their behalf to conduct this fund raising campaign as the membership cannot undertake this task on their own. The Association does not take on any new members and is comprised solely of the original WWII veterans of the Fourth Marine Division. These Iwo Jima survivors are well into their 90’s. The Division has dwindled to approximately 1,100 living members located throughout the United States. Most do not use the Internet, own a cell phone or use computers. They do not use email or belong to social networks. More importantly, they do not have the expertise to conduct a fund raising campaign or write grants. However, they currently hold a tax exempt status under the IRS code 501 (c) (3). Attached is a copy of their 990-N for the tax period of 2012 – 2013 and they are actively seeking your tax free charitable donation to conduct their final roll call. These are the last of the greatest generation Marines, the real heroes of WWII as illustrated by the flag raising on Iwo Jima which became an indelible icon for the American people. Now their mission is to have as many remaining members attend the (68th annual reunion) final roll call at Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune, NC which will be held August 3 – 7, 2015. It will be a major media event as this will be, once again, history in the making. Camp Lejeune is the very place where they were activated on August 16, 1943. It will also be the 70th Anniversary of the battle of Iwo Jima. It should be noted that the “Fighting Fourth” also distinguished themselves in combat in the Pacific on the islands of Rio Namur, Tinian, and Saipan. Their valor was recognized with 12 Medals of Honor, and 111 Navy Crosses and a host of other combat awards too numerous to mention here. See: www.fightingfourth.org The funds will be used for the rental of handicapped equipped tour buses. We have no idea what the attendance will be as physical limitations and other health issues maybe obstacles. However, it will not deter us from our mission to have as many Marines as possible in attendance for the final roll call. Any unused funds will be distributed to recognized IRS Code 501 (c) (3) Veterans Organizations. It is requested that all funds be directed to the President, Elmer Dapron at the above mailing address and made out to the Fourth Marine Division Association. You may also use PayPal to make your donation electronically; See attached form. Your tax free donation will allow these Marines to furl their colors with dignity and honor and go out in style. Thank you for your contribution in advance. Help us to get the word out about this historical event. Semper Fidelis, Jay Julian Jay Julian, Videographer www.veteransvideobiography.com