Posted on May 9, 2020

What is the proper term for a Marine who is no longer serving?

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I'm writing a story about a Marine who is no longer serving and I wanted to know how to properly describe his status. I know Marines like to say there is no such thing as an ex-Marine, so what would be the correct term? Would it be "Marine veteran" or something else?

Thanks to all of you jarheads--even if you did choose the wrong branch. ;)

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Posted >1 y ago

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Responses: 1183

370

SFC (Join to see)

Posted >1 y ago

I'm sure if they could read they would be very offended at being called ex-Marine lol

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MGySgt (Join to see)

12 mo

You can call me Sir, and then make yourself useful and fetch me a beer.

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CWO4 Tim Hecht

7 mo

MGySgt Mendez: I was going to join the Marines until they found out my parents were married when I was conceived; then after 4 years in the Navy - they let me go because I grew over 6’ tall. Someone said now go join a real service - The Coast Guard!

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SPC William Szkromiuk

1 mo

CWO4 Tim Hecht - Roger that! Minimum requirement is 6 feet. So you can walk back to shore if needed. :-)
I actually tried to join CG reserves after Army. Naw, they didn't want me. Had enough draft dodgers during Vietnam.

Thank You ALL for your Service.

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TSgt Max Lugauer

21 h

I heard back in the 60's and 70's once a MARINE ALWAYS A MARINE.

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281

Sgt Earl Poindexter

Posted 5 y ago

I’ll always answer only to Marine. Earned the title, carrying it to my grave.

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SSG Richard Bladl

>1 y

All ex-military, Marines, Air Force, Army, Navy are referred to as veteran's. When asked about my status I always say VETERAN, U.S. Army. I am a soldier for life. Once discharge and no longer active or in-active duty you are a veteran. I would never call you a Marine, Air Man, Soldier or Seaman first.

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SP5 Gary Lundholm

9 mo

I put on my uniform
I wore it to foreign lands
The soldier I was
Is still in the man
I have been a husband, father, and friend
But I've been a soldier all along
Even after so many a year
My final salute
I render today
I'm still a soldier
I'm just on my way. - Timothy Emmons Drafted 1967

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LCpl Kenneth Moore

8 mo

SSgt Danny Radcliffe - The term for a Marine that voluntarily decided he or she no longer wanted to serve on active duty(and there's no shame in that decision), is Former Marine. If ones ego is so large until they cant face that fact, I suggest you either re-join or never get out in the first place

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