February 11th, 2026 Meeting
4 PM Hope to see you then at the SC
The Saga of the Stolen Marine Corps Guidon
In 1971, amid the long, uneasy nights of the Vietnam War, a small drama unfolded far from the front lines. Two or perhaps more Army soldiers from the 23rd Infantry Division (America!), recently ordered to disengage from combat and awaiting reassignment, found themselves in the rear with time on their hands and alcohol in their systems.
One night, fueled by heavy drinking and questionable judgment, the soldiers conceived a bold and ill-advised mission: to steal a Marine Corps Guidon. Their target was the headquarters of the 11th Motor Transport Battalion, a nearby Marine unit that likely never imagined becoming the focus of such a caper.
The ringleader of the operation was Sergeant Lonnie Smith. Now, more than fifty years later, Sgt. Smith recalls only fragments of that night: the haze of alcohol, the thrill of the act, and the unmistakable red and gold of the Marine Corps flag. What he does remember clearly is what followed: the Gui don remained in his possession for half a century, carried through a lifetime far removed from the jungles of Vietnam.
Time has brought reflection, and with it, a sense of responsibility. With the urging of his wife, Joan, Sgt. Smith now believes the Guidon's journey should come full circle, returned at last to its rightful owners, a small but meaningful act of closure from a war filled with unfinished stories.
SPONSORS
Our sponsors are the backbone of our programs, we are proud of each and every one of them. These are our 2025 sponsors. Please stop by them when you can and thank them for their support. If you wish to sponsor our 2025 Outing, please contact Sean at svdirish@gmail.com. Please join our list of sponsors early to have maximum exposure.
WOW….WATER OAK VETERANS CLUB CHARITY GOLF OUTING. That’s right, sign up for this golf outing and this amazing opportunity to show your skills and possibly win MANY HOLE IN ONE PRIZES our outing November 10th, 2026.
The Opportunities Continue to Grow……. Another HOLE in ONE prize ...... Great prizes continue to grow
Without all of these great Sponsors our golf charity fundraiser would not be success.
Thank you so much for your support
IF YOU WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BECOMING A DEDICATED SPONSOR PLEASE CONTACT Sean Devlin at 757-817-6108 or email svdirish@gmail.com
Our
Platinum Sponsors
Welcome to our newest 2025 Golf Outing sponsors. stop by and visit them. Don't forget to thank them for their support
District 22
Join the group of sponsors for your Year long advertisement Opportunity
Recognizing NATIONAL POW/MIA RECONITION DAY with ceremony at Water Oak Country Club Estates assisted by our very own Honor Guard with US Flag presentation by Belleview Memorial VFW Post 8083 in Belleview, FL.
Here are a few pictures from the 2023 Veterans Day (weekend) celebrati0ns
just in case you missed it..
First of all
Honoring Our Heroes
We as Veterans of the United States of America Armed Forces, the Coast Guard and Merchant Marine, including the Reserve or Auxiliary Units, do hereby join together as a Not for Profit organization for the purpose of furthering the common interest and welfare of our Veterans and surrounding communities. Additionally, "Veterans" as defined above shall include anyone residing at Water Oak who served in like capacity with our Allied Nations.
Not to mention
Our Mission
We are dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have served our country with honor, dignity, and selflessness. Through our various programs and initiatives, we strive to show our gratitude and respect for their heroic deeds and unwavering commitment to God and Country.
And let's not forget
Our Commitment
At Water Oak Veterans Club, Inc., we are committed to providing support and resources to veterans and their families. Through our events, programs, and partnerships, we aim to create a strong and inclusive community that values and recognizes the sacrifices made by our veterans. Join us in our mission to honor, empower, and uplift those who have served.
Water Oak Veterans Club, Inc.
Water Oak Veterans Club, Inc. is dedicated to honoring and supporting veterans and citizens alike. We strive to create a community that values and appreciates the unselfish service and sacrifices made by our veterans. Through various initiatives and events, we aim to foster a sense of honor, dignity, and respect for all those who have served God and Country.