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Story
February 19, 1952
The News And Views
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
What is this article about?
11-year-old David Cooper from Columbus, GA, sends a letter to Camp Lejeune's commander, Major General Ray A. Robinson, expressing his desire to join the Marines and detailing his abilities. The general kindly replies that he's too young.
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Full Text
11-Year-Old Would Join Corps; Tabbed Prospect
CAMP LEJEUNE. The Marines have found another youthful admirer. He is 11-year old David Cooper of Columbus, Georgia.
David, feeling he had all the qualifications to fill some Leatherneck shoes, sent an inquiry here, requesting duty with the outfit.
The young hopeful didn't bother with military protocol. He sent his letter right to the head man of the camp.
Major General Ray A. Robinson, Commanding General
"Dear Sir," he wrote
"I am a little boy 11 years old and want to join the Marines.
I am fast and can throw any distance. I can fight. I can shoot good. I can throw a knife. I can crawl on my stomach in grass 2ft. high and you can't find me. I can climb a stone wall or tree. I am the healthiest boy on my St. I can obey orders. I will be 12 July 14th. 1952 if it is alright with Washington D. C. send me a reply to 2317 E. 7th St Columbus, Ga."
General Robinson, captivated by the flattering request, took time out from his many official duties to make a personal reply to the "prospect." He told him, in effect, that he was a little under age at the moment but to keep the Marines in mind after he has a few more years under his youthful belt.
CAMP LEJEUNE. The Marines have found another youthful admirer. He is 11-year old David Cooper of Columbus, Georgia.
David, feeling he had all the qualifications to fill some Leatherneck shoes, sent an inquiry here, requesting duty with the outfit.
The young hopeful didn't bother with military protocol. He sent his letter right to the head man of the camp.
Major General Ray A. Robinson, Commanding General
"Dear Sir," he wrote
"I am a little boy 11 years old and want to join the Marines.
I am fast and can throw any distance. I can fight. I can shoot good. I can throw a knife. I can crawl on my stomach in grass 2ft. high and you can't find me. I can climb a stone wall or tree. I am the healthiest boy on my St. I can obey orders. I will be 12 July 14th. 1952 if it is alright with Washington D. C. send me a reply to 2317 E. 7th St Columbus, Ga."
General Robinson, captivated by the flattering request, took time out from his many official duties to make a personal reply to the "prospect." He told him, in effect, that he was a little under age at the moment but to keep the Marines in mind after he has a few more years under his youthful belt.
What sub-type of article is it?
Curiosity
Prodigy
What themes does it cover?
Bravery Heroism
Moral Virtue
What keywords are associated?
Youthful Marine Enthusiast
Child Recruitment Letter
Military Correspondence
What entities or persons were involved?
David Cooper
Major General Ray A. Robinson
Where did it happen?
Camp Lejeune, Columbus, Georgia
Story Details
Key Persons
David Cooper
Major General Ray A. Robinson
Location
Camp Lejeune, Columbus, Georgia
Event Date
1952
Story Details
11-year-old David Cooper writes to Major General Ray A. Robinson requesting to join the Marines, listing his skills like fighting, shooting, and obeying orders; the general replies that he is too young but to keep the Marines in mind.