Chesty Puller

The United States Marines Corps enlisted Private Lewis Burwell Puller in August of 1918, this young Private would go on to become one of the most decorated Marines in the Corps’ history. Lewis Burwell “Chesty” Puller spent the better part of 37 years dedicated to the Marine Corps and his Marines. Puller’s numerous battlefield accomplishments and 5 Navy Crosses make him a legend among Marines. Chesty was the epitome of selfless service placing our nation, the Marine Corps and every Marine that served under him ahead of his own personal needs and interests. Matthew and Martha Puller gave birth to Lewis Burwell on June 26, 1898 in a small town in West Point, Virginia. Lewis grew up listening to war stories from the civil war and wanted more than anything to enlist in the military. After a brief attendance at Virginia Military Institute Puller dropped out of college to enlist in the Marine Corps. Private Puller shipped off to Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, South Carolina in August of 1918. Almost hundred-years later and the Marine Corps is still teaching young Marines about the legendary accomplishments of Chesty Puller. The Navy Cross is awarded for extraordinary heroism and is reserved for members of the United States Navy and the United States Marine Corps. The second-highest award that can be presented…

command principles. Colonel Puller, an example of one such leader, was the Commander for the 1st Marine Regiment during the invasion and battle of Peleliu. Throughout the 7 days of fighting, he successfully demonstrated the principles of mission command through his use of: building cohesive teams through mutual trust, providing a clear commander’s intent, exercising disciplined initiative, and accepting prudent risk. Even though sustaining over 50 percent casualties in his regiment and having…

autobiography by Lewis B. Puller Jr. The book is a gripping tale of a young man’s Vietnam War experience as a marine. His service resulted in amputation of both legs above the knees and several lost fingers. Lewis B. Puller Jr. is the son of “Chesty” Puller, one of the most famous Marines in United States history. The book details the life of Lewis Jr. Beginning with rudimentary childhood memories and adolescence. This leads into his college years and the military. Finally concluding with his…