MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabama’s top officials on Thursday honored two Mobilians whose World War II service in the Marines has become famous through television specials.
The Spirit of America awards recognized Dr. Sidney Phillips and the late Eugene Sledge.
Gov. Bob Riley made the presentations to Phillips and Sledge’s widow, Jeanne, in a House chamber packed with leaders of the Alabama House and Senate.
Click here to watch a video of R.V. Burgin and his actor, Martin McCann, during their appearance on the NBC “Today” Show that aired Friday, April 9, 2010.
We are pleased to share the following historical commentary for The Pacific miniseries from our friend Justin Taylan, founder of Pacific Wrecks, and a contributor for MarinesOfThePacific.com.
by Justin Taylan of Pacific Wrecks
This episode covers the Battle of Bloody Ridge (Edson’s Ridge) and the courageous actions of Sgt John Basilone. It ends with the Marines’ departure from Guadalcanal. more . . .
Above: view of Bloody Ridge (Edson’s Ridge) then and now . . .
Listen to an interview with R.V. Burgin on NPR!
In case you missed it, Sid Phillips was recently featured in an article in Parade Magazine. Click here to read this article and others.
