Cheers and Tears: A Marine's Story of Combat in Peace and War
Charlie Cooper, a 1950 Naval Academy graduate, spent 35 years as an infantry Marine. He commanded infantry units ranging from a platoon in combat, companies, two battalions, one in combat, a Marine Division, Recruit Depot, major Base, Marine Barracks, D.C. (8th & I), culminating in commanding all Marines forces in the Pacific. He had prestigious staff assignments as well. He trained Reserves, taught new second lieutenants, was an operations officer at regimental and division level, Marine Aide to CNO, Legislative Assistant to CMC, served on the JCS and was Director of Manpower for the Marine Corps. Among his awards are Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star Medal, two Legions of Merit, one with Combat "V" and two Purple Hearts. His career illustrates that time proven formula for success; "Be good, know you are good but don't take yourself too seriously."