A huge thanks to David Stephens for putting this Fund Razr together - A few thoughts from one of the brothers Chad Russell 3/1 Scout Sniper Platoon OIF 2005-2008 - 

Getting the Brothers back together has been something that has been close to my heart, and I have thought about doing it for many years. Especially, since I was privileged to be a part of an extraordinary group of warriors. 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines is where my Marine Corps career started and ended. All it takes is one glance at the Battalion Colors and the many streamers that recognize the notable battles that 3/1 has been involved in since its inception in 1941 and those of us that understand its significance well up with pride. Our era carried on the traditions as we etched our names in history among the notable battles that were won fighting shoulder to shoulder during these OIF/OEF conflicts. 

One of the things that I miss the most about my time at 3/1, besides doing my job, is the brotherhood. The incredible and priceless brotherhood is unlike anything I have ever experienced in my entire life. Esprit de corps.  The day you get discharged is difficult because that brotherhood umbilical cord gets cut quickly.  You are no longer together with your brother’s day in and day out. One day you wake up, put on your Alpha’s, get some signatures from the Battalion Commander, talk to the Chaplain, and it's over. Your life is now opend up to a whole new set of blessings.  You have freedom to do what you want; you feel ready to tackle the world. However, at least for me, there was and still is this undercurrent of something missing, and it's been missing since I got out. It’s without question esprit de corps.  I believe that the brotherhood is sacred ground, and that preserving that brotherhood is a non-negotiable responsibility that we all share. This requires action from each of us to preserve such sacred ground. Nothing worth keeping goes without actions to preserve it. 

Recently, I got together with a 3/1 brother that I served with in the war, and I told him about my desires to get the 3/1 Scout Sniper Platoon brothers back together. We were talking about the era before us, the era that trained us, and the those that are a part of that unique brotherhood presently. Together we made a plan and put a date in the books to make this happen on Labor Day weekend of this year. I was surprised at the overwhelming positive responses. I created a Facebook Group that grew to 40 members in one week’s time. These gentlemen are all multiple tour, battle hardened warriors that come from all over the country. They each have their own lives and families in their own communities. They are traveling from all over the country to rally at the base of the Eagle Cap Wilderness in North Eastern Oregon.  My folks have property there and were graciously willing to host this reunion. The logistics for a lot of them are difficult, but they value the brotherhood enough that they are making it happen. We are working on some different solutions to help mitigate the cost of getting these men together, including asking for your support. 

Most of us have not seen each other in over 7 years. I understand that there is a lot of charities out there and people ask for money all of the time. If you feel called to help or support this reunion, your dollars will be greatly appreciated and not taken for granted. If you donate to us I will see to it that we send you a personalized group thank you picture of our time together.  I personally see this as a time of fellowship with one another, not only to reconnect but, also a time for healing. Thank you for your time and consideration, God Bless America, our Marines, and their families. Semper Fidelis! I appreciate all of you that have supported me when I was downrange. I am grateful beyond words for the support that has been extended to all of us during this war.  

"Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigues of supporting it." - Thomas Paine, Rights of Man