Veterans of the 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, and their Corpsmen will reunite in Macomb the first week of September to remember, celebrate, and heal. Most served together between 1985 and 1992. This year’s gathering will include several first-time attendees.
Scott Hainline, a Macomb native and local organizer now retired in Florida, said, “These veterans could gather anywhere, but they have chosen Macomb since 2016.1 enjoy putting this together to spend time with my buddies. My hometown is unique and has become special to our entire unit.
The reunion cost is by donation only. Those who face financial hardship to travel here are supported by contributions from others.
We take care of our own.”
The group enjoys local events such as the Car Cruise, Balloon Rally, Art in the Park, and Macombopoly, along with visits to area restaurants and bars.
Last year, an advance party fished the Mississippi River for an early-bird fish fry and plans to try again this year.
The veterans contribute to the local economy during their stay, and businesses are encouraged to welcome them warmly.
The reunion also honors the connection to Marine Col. Ray Hanson and Western Illinois University, as well as local legend John Moon, who attended past dinners before his passing.
Navy Corpsman Todd “Doc” Chamberlain said, “The reunion is a chance for all our family to get together, reminisce about the good old days, reestablish friendships and brotherhood, and provide support for one another as only seasoned veterans can.”
The reunion begins with informal gatherings and tourist activities Thursday and Friday. The official reunion dinner will be held Saturday, September 6, at American Legion Post #6. Attendees will enjoy a catered meal, dessert, a slideshow of their youthful endeavors, and memorials for fallen comrades. Local veteran Marines and Corpsmen from any division are invited to join the evening for storytelling and camaraderie.
