They came in Peace

[Gun Grape]

23 years ago today terrorist struck the Marine compound at BIA and the French compound. It was the largest non nuclear explosion ever until the OKC bombing. It was also the opening shot of the war on terrorism. We just didn't know it.

220 Marines, 18 Sailors and 2 Soldiers were killed in the blast

One of our WAB members was there. I hope you are fine today Fred. You upheld the traditions of the Navy that day. Job well done, Sailor

[Bluesman]

Semper Fidelis

[Shamus]

May they rest in peace.

[Ironduke]

Semper Fi

[Officer of Engineers]

Present Arms.

[wabpilot]

Firing party - Present Arms.

Ready - Aim - Fire - Fire - Fire.

Firing party, Order Arms.

[RamHammer]

RIP, and Semper Fi.

[Elbmek]

23 years ago today terrorist struck the Marine compound at BIA and the French compound. It was the largest non nuclear explosion ever until the OKC bombing. It was also the opening shot of the war on terrorism.

Please forgive the apparent cynicism, its not intended, but "the opening shot of the war on terrorism"!??? Can I remind our esteemed colleagues that we were heavily into a long long battle against terrorism from 1969, in Ulster, where the PIRA were funded by the United States. 39 years ago. We were "terrorist" hardened soldiers when the USA thought a uniform was for parades. Also, the "war" in Malaya, post WW2, was fought by British troops against communist terrorists.