19:00 –  Meeting called to order, Det. Commandant David Foy.  Colors salute and Pledge of Allegiance, followed by Marines Hymn led by Sgt-at-Arms.  Chaps provided the opening prayer and a blessing for freshly delivered chow, deemed fit for human consumption.  Acting Adjutant made roll-call and determined “All present” with 25 total members in attendance.

19:11 – Prayer requests were solicited by Chaplain, including remembrance for deceased members & family, several currently battling illness, and members family now serving in Armed Forces.  Paymaster then discussed finances, including a motion by Jim Wood to continue the Det.’s sponsorship of local Oconee/Clark County Little League baseball team(s); the motion was called to a vote, and passed.  Brief review of prior meeting(s) minutes and Old Business was conducted, including discussion that Det.’s members were generally in agreement that ABC remains the preferred venue for monthly meetings, unless better options are presented in future.  Meeting progressed onto New Business.

New Business:

Retirement ceremony for Chief Brock will occur Wednesday, 16 August 2023 @18:00 in Watkinsville City Hall.  All MCL Det. members are invited and encouraged to attend.

Venues for USMC Birthday Ball currently under review due to death of former venue’s owner.  Guest speaker nominees being solicited and considered.  Standing ball committee will determine these options to present info at next months meeting.  The Birthday Ball will occur on Friday 10 November 2023, marking 248 years.

Members recommended inspirational viewing of a video interview of WW II Iwo Jima Marine Don Graves, only surviving flame-thrower who served on Iwo Jima, broadcast by the Shawn Ryan Show and available on YouTube.

Chappy regaled a tale of visiting Parris Island, lovingly harassing MP gate guards and admiring/comforting DI’s wives, then trying to convert an overly-sensitive, woke father of a newly graduated Marine.

19:31 – Chaplain offered closing prayers.  Meeting adjourned by Commandant, and the colors were retired.