TBS 2-67 Cruisebook_Updated_7Jan23

Second Platoon
Carlton W. Fulford
Nickname: Carl
My Life Before Attending TBS: I grew up in Millen,
Georgia. After graduation from high school, I attended
the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. My Father
was in the 8th Air Force in World War II. Instructors at
the Naval Academy and Classmates influenced me to
choose the Marine Corps.
My Memories of TBS: I was not married at TBS. My
roommates were Homer Gray Hutchinson and Mo
Fletcher, who was married and had a locker in our
room.
TBS Graduation: I was an 0301 upon graduation from
TBS. That was my first choice.
After Completing TBS: I went to VietNamese Language
school in Monterey, California right after TBS
graduation and then to Vietnam when that training
was completed.
Vietnam Era Service: I arrived in Vietnam in May of
1967, and was assigned to Delta Company, 1st Bn, 5th
Marines as a rifle platoon commander. I was wounded
during Operation Swift in September of 1967, and spent
a month on the Hospital Ship Repose. I rejoined 1/5 in
October and shortly thereafter was transferred to 5th
Marines as the S-3A. In April, I was transferred to 2nd
Bn, 5th Marines and took command of Fox Company,
2/5. I returned to CONUS in June of 1968.
After Vietnam: After returning to CONUS, I was
assigned as a Company Officer at the Naval Academy
Prep School in Bainbridge, Maryland. I did return
through Okinawa, picked up my sea bag without any
problem, and returned home.
After My Initial Obligation was up: I remained on
active duty in the Marine Corps until 2003, for a total
of thirty-seven years of active duty. I had the
opportunity to command a battalion, regiment, two
MEFs, and Marine Forces, Pacific. I retired at the rank
of General.
My Current Life: I married my present wife 50 years
ago, raised three children -- one is an active duty
Marine -- and am fully retired now, enjoying
grandchildren when I can. I did go back to Vietnam in
2007, with a group of Classmates from the Naval
Academy and their wives. I am glad I made that trip,
but have no need to go back again.
What I Learned from My Time in the Corps: TBS
prepared me for our first tour in Vietnam. It was
during this tour that I realized I wanted to remain in
the Corps for as long as they would have me. I have no
regrets!
My Home Address: 240 South River Landing Road,
Edgewater, MD 21037
(Editor note: Carl's son, now a BG, USMC, was our guest
speaker at our TBS 2-67 Reunion, May 2019)
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