Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park
By Lon Chaney Chief Hospital Corpsman United States Navy, Retired
All gave some, some gave all. www.camphamilton.org
Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park
Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park is located a few miles northeast of Bakersfield, California. Due to a Marine’s vision to honor and pay a special tribute to one hundred and twenty-two Marines who made the supreme sacrifice for our country during the Vietnam War, he dedicated ten acres of land and a memorial park was established. It is opened to all veterans and their dependents. The Marine’s name is Glenn Denton Jr.
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Composed and Edited by
Lon Chaney Chief Hospital Corpsman United States Navy, Retired July 6, 1956—January 31, 1987 Educator—Historian April 20, 1938 – May 23, 2017 2
Glenn Denton Jr. Master Gunnery Sergeant United States Marine Corps, Retired 3
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Drive north from Lerdo Highway along canal approximately one mile and turn right to the entrance of Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park.
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Entrance to Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park
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It is important that we continue to honor our heroes, but we should be prepared to pass the torch as we move on. Now and throughout our history, we have witnessed the loss of our country’s patriots. We receive strength from our fallen heroes and commit ourselves to use their inspiration to go forth to preserve, protect and defend these United States. We must dedicate ourselves to extending this legacy, not just for today, but for all time. We are fortunate this young Marine’s vision to honor our veterans became a reality. Glenn Denton Jr. wanted a place where a tree—a living memorial, could be planted and dedicated to a deceased veteran. Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park was created to serve this special purpose. This park is a site where friends, relatives and strangers can read a name of an American Hero who honorably served his or her country, and, in many cases, died for their country. Former Marine Glenn Denton Jr. was born in Rushville Nebraska on January 31, 1950. His parents were Glenn Denton and Joyce McLatchy Denton. He was the Ninth child of a family of ten. The small town of Polson, Montana where Glenn spent his high school years is located in the western part of Montana approximately seventy miles south of the Canadian Border. Glenn graduated from Polson High School in May 1968. After graduating from high school, he joined the United States Marine Corps on July 22, 1968 and remained in the Marine Corps until his retirement in September 1995. During Glenn Denton’s over twenty-seven years in the United States Marine Corps, besides Vietnam and Bakersfield, he also served in Okinawa; Korea, Diego Garcia, Mt. Fugi, Japan; the Philippine Islands; Honduras; Panama, Saudi, Arabia; Non Commissioned Officer in Charge over Recruiting in Montana; and served as Operations Chief for the School of Infantry at Camp Pendleton, California where he retired. Denton reported immediately to Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California for the first phase of his recruit training. He then reported to Camp Pendleton, California for his advance infantry training, and on to Defense Language Institute, West Coast at Monterey, California for a course in Vietnamese Language. Upon completion of his advance training, Private Denton reported to Vietnam where he was assigned to Golf Company, 2nd Battalion 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division Fleet Marine Force Pacific. Vietnam was Private Denton’s first assignment following the completion of his recruit training, infantry training and Vietnamese Language School. It was during an eight-day skirmish in August 1969 that One hundred and twenty-two of his fellow Marines lost their lives.
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THE PICTURES ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES WERE TAKEN OF GLENN DENTON JR. DURING HIS TOUR IN VIETNAM
Lance Corporal Glenn Denton Jr. swimming with friends in Vietnam during July 1969.
Lance Corporal Glenn Denton Jr. in a military hospital in Vietnam during 1969 receiving the Purple Heart for wounds that he received during combat.
Corporal Glenn Denton Jr. relaxing with friends in February 1970 during his tour in Vietnam. 13
THE STATE OF MONTANA HONORS ITS COMBAT WOUNDED VETERANS
Montana Purple Heart Memorial Monument
A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO OUR WAR HEROES
Glenn Denton Jr. pointing at his name on the “Wall of Honor.”
Glenn Denton Jr. standing next to the Monument that honors him and other “Combat Wounded Veterans.”
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During the latter 1970’s Denton was on Recruiting Duty in Bakersfield, California. While on Recruiting Duty, Glenn met and married a girl from Delano, California named Irene Espinosa. Following the birth of their first child, Glenn Denton III, in 1978, he purchased a ten-acre parcel of land north of Lerdo Highway and west of Highway 65. This parcel of land was purchased as an investment. During a subsequent Marine Corps assignment, Glenn Denton Jr. made the decision to utilize this parcel of land to honor and pay a special tribute to his fallen comrades in Vietnam. A leanto was built in 1982 and the new memorial park was named Camp Marine. Glenn Denton Jr. and a corps of volunteers built roads, buildings, camping spaces and planted trees. The first trees were planted in 1989. The park was renamed Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park in 1991 and the decision was made to honor all veterans from all military services and all wars. There are now over 300 living trees planted at Camp Hamilton. More important are the trees, which have been memorialized with dedication plaques. New trees are appropriately dedicated twice a year on Memorial Day and then again on Veterans Day. Any person who desires to have a living memorial to honor a veteran may purchase a tree of his or her choice to be planted at the park. For a required donation, the tree will be planted, a nameplate will be placed on the tree to honor the veteran and park personnel will care for the tree. There are alternative ways to honor a veteran at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park other than living memorials. For example, a bench, picnic table or BBQ may be dedicated to honor a veteran. Questions in reference to establishing living memorials or alternative memorials should be referred to Glenn Denton Jr. or the Kern County Veterans Service Office in Bakersfield, California. At Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park, we currently honor our heroes by planting and commemorating trees with their names as a lasting and fitting memorial. This place called Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park has really one purpose for its existence and that is to bring people together to read the names, reflect and, most importantly, remember those veterans whose names are inscribed on the numerous plaques placed in front of trees throughout the camp. For those newcomers to Camp Hamilton, we are all grateful for the vision of our good friend, Glenn Denton Jr. At Camp Hamilton, Glenn has given us a place where we are assured that our veteran friends and comrades will not be forgotten, and on occasions such as Memorial Day and Veterans Day, when they will be honored.
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On Memorial Day and then again on Veterans Day, you’ll hear a lot of music, especially “Marine Music” at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park. In addition, there is one song that you will hear over and over again and is a song sung by Billy Ray Cyrus, the camp’s theme song “All Gave Some, Some Gave All.” By listening to some of the words, you can understand why it is so appropriate and why—
“AT CAMP HAMILTON VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK—
THEY WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN”
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Billy Ray Cyrus signed the above American Legion Bakersfield Post 682 Post Key authorizing Glenn Denton Jr. permission to use “All Gave Some—Some Gave All” song as the Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park Official Song. Glenn Denton Jr. attended a live performance of Billy Ray Cyrus in Buffalo Bill’s at State Line Nevada on New Years Eve in the 1990’s. Glenn was sitting near the stage and in a loud voice he shouted to Billy Ray Cyrus “Who in the hell is Sandy Kane?” Billy Ray Cyrus appeared stunned at his remark. During his next break, Billy Ray Cyrus approached Glenn Denton Jr. and inquired why he asked about Sandy Kane. At this point, Glenn Denton Jr. informed Billy Ray Cyrus about Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park and that the camp song is “All Gave Some—Some Gave All.” He further stated that he first heard the song while serving on active duty in Saudi Arabia in 1992. This special place Glenn told Billy Ray Cyrus about impressed him and he told Glenn that he wrote the song about an old Veteran he met in 1989. Glenn strongly desired to receive permission from Billy Ray Cyrus for authorization to make the song the official song for Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park. Billy Ray Cyrus gave Glenn Denton Jr. permission, but there was no legal paper available. Glenn only had his key for The American Legion Bakersfield Post 682. Billy Ray Cyrus wrote the following on the back of the post key “Glen….”Some gave all” Auth Billy Ray Cyrus.
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Billy Ray Cyrus—Some Gave All In 1989, Billy Ray Cyrus was playing music in a club in Huntington, West Virginia. He met a Vietnam Veteran named Sandy Kane. Following this encounter, Billy Ray Cyrus wrote the song “Some Gave All.” This song was published in 1992 and became one of the songs Billy Ray Cyrus is best known for. The song was meant to spark pride in America and remind everyone that freedom does not come easy. Billy Ray Cyrus has been a household name for almost 20 years. Ever since his 1992 debut album, “Some Gave All” rose to the top spot on the chart, he’s been in our lives.
I knew a man called him Sandy Kane Few folks even knew his name But a hero was he Left a boy came back a man Still many just don’t understand About the reasons we are free I can’t forget the look in his eyes Or the tears he cries As he said these words to me All gave some and some gave all And some stood through for the red, white and blue And some had to fall And if you ever think of me Think of all your liberties and recall Some gave all Now Sandy Kane is no longer here But his words are oh so clear As they echo through out our land For all his friends who gave us all Who stood the ground and took the fall To help their fellow man Love your country and live with pride And don’t forget those who died American Can’t you see All gave some and some gave all And some stood through for the red, white and blue And some had to fall And if you ever think of me Think of all your liberties and recall Some gave all And if you ever think of me Think of all your liberties and recall, yes recall Some gave all 18
CAMP HAMILTON VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK THE EARLY YEARS 1992—1998
The above Camp Hamilton Lean was built in May 1992
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Volunteers digging a deep pit BBQ on May 22, 1992
Gunny Ben installs new Camp Hamilton Flag & Pole—1992 20
Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park—May 1992
Bodfish Parade—May 23, 1992 21
Glenn Denton Jr. unveiling The Crow Bar Plaque—May 29, 1993
Partying in The Crow Bar—May 29, 1993 22
Many auctions were held to finance the building of Camp Hamilton
Camp Hamilton—May 30, 1993 23
Glenn Denton Jr. resting after a hard day’s work—May 30, 1993
Volunteers preparing food at Camp Hamilton—May 31, 1993 24
Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park—1993
Planting a tree at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park—May 30, 1994
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Building the Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park Honeymoon Suite--1994
Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park Honeymoon Suite—1995 26
Jan Wirthy & Glenn Denton Jr.—1995
Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park—1998 27
Upon his retirement from the United States Marine Corps in September 1995, Glenn Denton Jr. returned to Bakersfield, California to live and has dedicated his life to Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park and assisting veterans. From the beginning, he was able to involve other veterans and several local businesses in establishing and maintaining this park. Veterans from throughout the United States travel to Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park for campouts and reunions. They utilize this recreation facility at no cost to the veteran due to the many donations the camp has received from veterans and local community.
There is a sign on Lerdo Highway directing the way to Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park. The name of the road is Marine Drive. Glenn Denton Jr. would like to see an address for Camp Hamilton authorized by the County of Kern to be 1775 Marine Drive to commemorate the year the Marine Corps was established.
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The United States Marine Corps was established in Tun Tavern, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on November 10, 1775. Tun Tavern West was built at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park as a tribute to the beginning of the United States Marine Corps and its contributions and sacrifices to help keep our country free.
A student from Wasco visiting Camp Hamilton. 29
Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park was named after Sergeant Leonard Hamilton, United States Marine Corps. A picture of Sergeant Hamilton is located on the east wall of The Crow Bar in Tun Tavern West.
The Crow Bar Honors Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Leland D. Crawford
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The Crow Bar is located in Tun Tavern West. This is the area for relaxation and entertainment. Beverages are available for the guest at no charge, but is requested the guest leave a donation to replenish the supplies for other visitors. In the above picture, Glenn Denton Jr. is volunteering as bartender.
Visitors enjoy the hospitality in Tun Tavern West. 31
The slot machines are available for recreation and entertainment. In the above picture, Zana Chaney is playing the slot machine and her grandson; Javier Rocha Medina III is reaching for her winnings as the bartender looks on.
State of California Past Department Commander Thomas D. Hetherington and his wife visit Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park. 32
Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park Historian Lon Chaney gives visitor Jesse Copple a special tour of the park.
State of California Past Department Commander Dennis Fercho visits Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park. 33
State of California Auxiliary President Norma Duvall receives a special tour of Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park by Glenn Denton Jr.
Veterans relaxing and playing Dominos in The Crow Bar Patio of Tun Tavern. Pictured from left—Jeff Tudor and Glenn Denton Jr.
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Guests utilize The Crow Bar Patio during their many visits to Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park.
Volunteers help decorate The Crow Bar Patio in preparation of memorial services. 35
Volunteers also decorate tables in The Crow Bar Patio in preparation of memorial services.
Volunteers for special occasions prepare BBQ Steaks, Hamburgers and Hotdogs. 36
Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park Kitchen has up to date equipment to provide the best food possible.
Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park Duty Chefs. Pictured from left—Glenn Denton Jr. and his wife, Esther Denton. 37
Guests in line for food.
Guests enjoying their meal.
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On the Sunday prior to Memorial Day, the former members of the 1st Marine Division March in their Annual Parade at Bodfish, California. The parade is approximately the length of a football field.
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The parade begins on Kilbreth Drive and Lake Isabella Blvd. and ends at “Our Place” on Lake Isabella Blvd Where the parade participants receive free food and drinks. The 20th Annual 1st Marine Division Parade at Bod Fish was completed on May 30, 2010.
The former 1st Marine Division Marines shoot off the cannon as a tribute for completing the “Annual Bodfish Parade.”
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Parade participants relaxing in “Our “Place” and enjoying the free drinks and food.
Scottish Bagpiper Don Taylor relaxing at “Our Place” following the Bodfish Parade. 41
Ceremonial Area
A 72-foot high flagpole is located in the ceremonial area of Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park where all official functions are held.
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Master of Ceremony Chuck Bikakas and Glenn Denton
Guests attending Memorial Day Service 43
Guests attending Memorial Day Service. Distinguished guests in attendance include World War II Ex POW James J. Wilson of Bakersfield, California.
Guests Virginia Rowland and Sandra Gray attend Memorial Day Service.
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Sons of The American Legion Merle Reed Squadron 124 Member Ethan Scott attending Memorial Day Ceremony in 2007.
Tarn Benton reading over 300 names honoring the Veterans at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park. 45
Presentation of Colors
Flag at Half Mast during Memorial Service 46
Miss Taylor Camarillo singing the National Anthem as Glenn Denton Jr. honors the Flag.
Reverend Glenn Denton III—Opening Prayer 47
Jeff Tudor—Camp Hamilton Prayer
CAMP HAMILTON MEMORIAL PRAYER OH GOD, YOU ARE ETERNAL, FROM BEFORE TIME BEGAN AND BEYOND HUMAN HISTORY. WE STAND BEFORE YOU, IN OUR MOMENT OF TIME, KEEPING THE MEMORY OF THOSE WHO, IN THEIR MOMENTS OF TIME, GAVE THEIR LIVES IN SERVICE OF THOSE IDEALS, WHICH ARE TIMELESS. AS WE REMEMBER THEIR COURAGE, THEIR HONOR, THEIR COMMITMENT, WE FEEL PRIVILEGED TO HAVE KNOWN THEIR FRIENDSHIP. AS THIS EVENT STIRS UP WITHIN EACH OF US, THESE POWERFUL SENTIMENTS SHOW US HOW TO TURN THE ENERGY INTO EVEN GREATER DEEDS OF SERVICE. THUS, MAY OUR BEST MEMORIAL BE A LIVING ONE, A TREE, A CONTINUATION OF LIVES LIVED IN SERVICE OF ALL THAT IS GOOD, HONORABLE, AND RIGHTEOUS, LIVED FAITHFULLY IN THE TIME, AND FOR ALL TIME. AMEN.
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Glenn Denton Jr.—“These Good Men”
THESE GOOD MEN By Michael Norman I now know why men who have been to war yearn to reunite. Not to laugh or weep. Comrades gather because they long be with the men who once acted their best, men who suffered and sacrificed, who were stripped raw, right down to their humanity. I did not pick these men. They were delivered by fate and the United States Marine Corps. But I know them in a way I know no other men. I have never given anyone such trust. They were willing to guard something more precious than my life. They would have carried my reputation, the memory of me. It was part of the bargain we all made, the reason we were so willing to die for one another. I cannot say where we are headed. Ours are not perfect friendships; those are the province of legend and myth. A few of my comrades drift far from me now, sending back only occasional word. I know that one day even these could fall to silence. Some of the men will stay close, a couple, perhaps, always at hand. As long as I have memory, I will think of them all, every day. I am sure that when I leave this world, my last thought will be of my family and my comrades. ……such good men.
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Al Goss performed flyovers above Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park during Veteran Memorial Services for many years.
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Flyover during Memorial Service by Al Goss and L. D. Hughes.
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Flyover during Memorial Service by Kern County Sheriff’s Department Search and Rescue. Pilots—Norm Canby, John McAdoo and Jason Nelson.
Alan Stramler 52
REMEMBER ME AT CAMP HAMILTON A. R. O’Neil/Mike Enos I feel footsteps walking near my tree, Even though I’m in my grave so far away. I fought and I fell for Freedom, A high price to pay. I didn’t see much in nineteen years, I didn’t know what was goin’ down. But when my country called on me, I answered to the bugle’s sound. Others live on to taste of life and Watch their children grow. I gave all for my country, These joys I’ll never know. Well, I don’t want your pity, but Be proud of what I’ve done. And Pray to God there will be more with heart, if Another war should come. Americans to stand and fight for freedom, Not question their country’s call. What I’ve done, I would do again, For this land I gave all. And if it’s not too much to ask, Of people living free— At Camp Hamilton, please read aloud my name On the plaque next to my Remembrance tree.
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Military Flags
Piper Don Taylor Playing—The Marine’s Hymn
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Prior to 2010, food was provided at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park following the Memorial Day and Veterans Day Ceremonies at a low cost to the guests who attended.
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World War II POW James J. Wilson and The American Legion Auxiliary District 15 President Zana Chaney meet following Memorial Day Service.
Poncho (Mike Enos) and The American Legion Auxiliary District 15 President Zana Chaney. 56
One of over 300 “Living Memorials for United States Navy Larry Rowland� serves as shade for visitors utilizing Camp Hamilton for camping or a picnic area.
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Glenn Denton Jr. and other veterans relaxing at one of the picnic tables.
Horse Shoe Toss
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This jeep is available to take Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park visitors for a ride.
The above volunteers take turns driving visitors around Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park. Pictured from left—Mitch Benton, Mike Snow and David Stramler. 59
Camp Commandant Master Gunnery Sergeant John Tevebaugh United States Marine Corps Retired
World War II U. S. Army Air Force Veteran R. T. Lee displays his respect to another World War II U. S. Army Air Force Veteran.
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A tree has been dedicated at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park to honor the first Marine Private Denton saw killed in Vietnam. His name was Cecil Lambert. Glenn Denton Jr. plans to plant a tree to honor each of the one hundred and twenty-two of his fellow Marines killed during and eight-day skirmish in August 1969.
Living Memorial for Paul Raymond Chaney U. S. Army Air Force—World War II
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Purple Heart—Dedicated to all Veterans who shed blood for their country.
The above Memorial is a tribute to a “Special Hero”—USMC Scout Dog who “GAVE HIS ALL” to help preserve our way of life in America.
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Individuals and organizations benefit from visiting and utilizing the accommodations of Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park. They include but are not limited to: Boy Scouts; Recruiters; Reserve Units; Young Marines; Sheriff’s Activity League and the Shafter Lyons Club. It is not uncommon to find the Army and Marine Corps Recruiters presenting classes at the park to local high school students that joined the military under the delayed entry program. In addition, the recruiters train some of their recruits during their delay entry program prior to going to boot camp. Honor, Courage, and Commitment are words that apply to the Bakersfield Young Marines. One of the major projects of the Young Marines is to help keep Camp Hamilton Memorial Park clean and presentable for visitors. Because of their hard work and dedication, Glenn Denton Jr. set aside an area at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park for recreational activity of the children. The Bakersfield Young Marines have been assigned to design and build this recreation area.
The Bakersfield Young Marines diligently cleaning the children’s recreation park area.
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Bakersfield Young Marines enjoying swings in new play ground area.
Area utilized by the Young Marines and other groups to play war games
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Marine Recruiter instructing high school students in the delay entry program how to properly handle paint guns.
Future Marines playing war games. 65
The above picture was taken during a Marine Reserve Training Exercise.
A Marine Reserve being trained in heavy equipment during the Reserve Training Exercise.
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In addition to the many living memorials at Camp Hamilton, there are several monuments. On March 24, 2001, the Iwo Jima Memorial was dedicated. There were approximately 250 people; which included a color guard and bagpiper in attend-ance for the unveiling of the monument. Encased at the base of the monument is sand from the beaches of Iwo Jima. Two surviving Marines from the battle of Iwo Jima were present and said a few words. Following the ceremony, every-one enjoyed a BBQ hosted by Camp Hamilton.
At a time when our young men and women were fighting a battle in Southwest Asia, the dedication to honor our military of another war took place at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park. The Vietnam War Khe Sanh Battle Monument was dedicated at Camp Hamilton at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2003. This monument was dedicated to honor the heroes and survivors of the 78-day Siege of Khe Sanh. Guest speaker Chuck Bikakis spoke on the 78-day Siege of Khe Sanh, which took place during the Vietnam War. According to Bikakis, the Siege of Khe Sanh lasted from January 20, 1968 to April 8, 1968. It was a valuable base for monitoring North Vietnamese infiltration through Laos along the Ho Chi Minh and Santa Fe Trails. It was also important to General Westmoreland’s planned invasion of Laos by which he intended to physically cut the trails. Finally, and vitally significant when considering the unpopularity of the war to many Americans by 1968, was the psychological significance of the Khe Sanh. While it had no authentic political importance, to relinquish it in the face of North Vietnamese pressure would result in a major enemy propaganda victory. At Khe Sanh, the 26th Marines had the responsibility to prevent the base from tailing to the surrounding communist forces. With three infantry battalions, an artillery battalion and a full range of supporting units. For some of the Khe Sanh’s defenders, the siege had taken its toll. For 78 days and nights, NVA divisions repeatedly attacked the Khe Sanh village, the plateau, and surrounding outposts.
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On April 8, 1968, U. S. Forces in Operation Pegasus finally retook route 9 ending the Siege of Khe Sanh. It had been the biggest single battle of the Vietnam War to that point. The official assessment of the North Vietnamese Army dead was just over 1,600 killed with two divisions all but annihilated, but thousands more were probably killed by American bombing.
The “Khe Sanh Battle Monument� has been placed along side other monuments at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park honoring battles during previous wars. This monument was dedicated on March 22, 2003.
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Guadalcanal
Korean Monument 69
A monument to honor our POW/MIA’s was built and dedicated on Memorial Day 2009.
World War II U. S. Marine Corps Pilot Howard Nielsen and others tour the POW/ MIA Monument on Memorial Day 2009.
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The City of Bakersfield, California is fortunate to have Deputy Chief of Chaplains for Reserve Matters and Director of Religious Programs, Marine Forces Reserve Rear Admiral Gregory C. Horn as a member of its community. He has been a pastor and head of staff at the Westminster Presbyterian Church since January 1986. He is always available to assist a veteran if needed. Glenn Denton Jr. wanted to show his appreciation and requested Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park Historian Lon Chaney to present a copy of the camp’s historical document to the Admiral. In the above picture, Lon Chaney presents a copy of the Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park historical document to Rear Admiral Gregory C. Horn at the First Annual Military Ball in Bakersfield, California on Saturday, February 19, 2011. Purple Heart Recipient and Korean War Veteran Leon Thomas was present during the presentation. A Memorial Service was held for former Marine Jim Collins who passed away on January 16, 2011. PFC Jim Collins served in Korea with the 1st Marine Regiment 1st Marine Division. During the Korean War, he served at the Chosen Reservoir. Former Marine Jim Collins lived in Arizona with his wife Rose Mary prior to his death. They were childhood sweethearts and in 2010 they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. Jim and Rose Mary were blessed with three sons Jim, Michael and Bruce. Jim and Rose Mary were some of the first former Marine families who visited Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park and enjoyed the first years of its existence. This couple made a trip to this special place on an annual basis. Jim loved Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park so much that he made two special requests when he died. This former Marine requested that he be
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cremated and that his ashes be placed at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park. Jim was honored on Friday, March 25, 2011. Glenn Denton Jr. and three former Marines placed Jim Collins’ ashes at a special tree and provided honors for this Korean War Veteran.
On March 26, 2011, a special Memorial Service was held for former Marine Jim Collins. There were over 100 people in attendance, which included his wife Rose Mary and their three sons Jim, Michael and Bruce. Also in attendance were approximately 90 family and close friends who traveled from all over the United States to honor this special person. In addition, several local Bakersfield former Marines, other military service and their families were in attendance. Following the Memorial Service, the Collins family hosted a BBQ for all in attendance. There was much revelry remembering this special Korean Marine War Veteran and his many trips to Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park.
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In addition to being utilized as a recreation facility, Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park is also utilized to educate our youth of the many sacrifices of our veterans to ensure our freedom and way of life. The cost to each child is to read at least one nameplate on one of the living memorials located throughout Camp Hamilton and inform the other children about this veteran. Many of these children are enlightened of the many sacrifices our veterans make to protect our way of life. They not only visit many living memorials to these veterans, they stand in awe when they see a sign that reads, “ALL GAVE SOME—SOME GAVE ALL.”
Glenn Denton’s residence during his many visits to Camp Hamilton. Also, referred to as the Honeymoon Suite.
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Camping and picnic areas available at no cost to veteran.
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Camping Trailer parking spaces available at no cost to veteran
RV parking spaces available at no cost to the veteran
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Glenn Denton Jr. has several species of goats and sheep at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park. They are tame and enjoy the children playing with them.
The Sheep and goats enjoy the companionship of a beautiful horse that also enjoys being around children. 76
Glenn Denton Jr. is at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park daily working to make the park an enjoyable place to visit. In the above picture, Glenn is mowing the lawn.
Volunteer Taryn Benton is painting signs.
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A water line was installed to provide water to all areas within Camp Hamilton Memorial Veterans Park.
The above picture was taken during the final phase of installing the new water system. 78
Camping area being watered with the new watering system.
Volunteers repairing broken water line. Pictured from left—David Martinez, Glenn Denton Jr. and Ian McDonald.
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A special dream came true on March 20, 2010. Mitchell Oil had granted Glenn Denton Jr. permission to run a service line to Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park for the purpose of providing Camp Hamilton power availability. The Gold Coast Electric Company provided the labor and equipment, and it donated a service line to Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park. Also, the company supervised and coordinated the project. The primary workers and coordinators from Gold Coast were Mark L. McMains and other workers. Joe Lewis of Bakersfield donated the Telephone poles. Other individuals and companies keeping the total cost to Camp Hamilton under $3,000.00 donated other materials and labor. MGYSGT John Tevebaugh and Hillcrest Wal-Mart Stores donated the money for the project. Camp Hamilton provided food and refreshments for the volunteer workers. It took four-week ends to complete the project. Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park now has electrical power due to the efforts of Glenn Denton and volunteers.
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Pictured from left—Glenn Denton Jr., Mark L. McMains and Mitch Benton
Pictured from Left—Mark L. McMains & Jo Anderson 81
Installing flagpoles for military service flags.
Military Service Flags and the U. S. Flag 82
The large United States Flag that flies over Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park is provided by Inland Crop Dusters in Shafter, California
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Kern County Sheriff’s Explorers League volunteers their service to provide much needed help to ensure Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park is presentable for the many visitors who visit this special park.
Sheriff’s Explorers League volunteer verifying the names on the “Living Memorials.”
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John Thompson instructing Sheriff’s Activity League volunteer how to spray paint picnic table
Glenn Denton Jr. thanking Sergeant John Money for the work his volunteer accomplished to upgrade Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park.
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The 237th Marine Corps Ball was held in Bakersfield, California on November 3, 2012. The above Retired Marines and Navy were in attendance. Pictured from left—Master Gunnery Sergeant Glenn Denton Jr, United States Marine Corps, Retired, Master Gunnery Sergeant M C Long, United States Marine Corps, Retired and Chief Hospital Corpsman Lon Chaney United States Navy, Retired attended this gala Affair. Master Gunnery Sergeant MC Long, United States Marine Corps, Retired—Montford Point Marine—One of The First Black American Marines. Also, he was on the Inspector and Instructor Staff in Bakersfield, California when Master Gunnery Sergeant Glenn Denton United States Marine Corps, Retired was serving as a Recruiter in Bakersfield in 1972) Chief Hospital Corpsman Lon Chaney, United States Navy, Retired—Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park Historian. Master Gunnery Sergeant Glenn Denton Jr, United States Marine Corps, Retired—Guest of Honor at the Bakersfield 237th Marine Corps Ball.
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Christmas 2012
First year—Christmas Lighting at Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial Park Gold Coast Electric put decorations and lights on tree
On October 15, 2001, Camp Hamilton Memorial Park Inc. received final approval from the IRS that their application for tax-exempt status was approved. The approval date is retroactive to March 7, 2001 (date of incorporation). This means any donation made to Camp Hamilton since March 7, 2001 is tax deductible by the donor. 90
FREEDOM IS NOT FREE CAMP HAMILTON HONORS VETERANS “ALL GAVE SOME—SOME GAVE ALL”
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