"Freedom" Dedicated to our American Veterans
During the Korean War an American Marine gun crew bought a mare with their own money and trained her to carry shells for the recoilless rifle they called "Reckless". They also named the mare "Reckless" as she became their mascot and vital member of their gun crew. Reckless often, under heavy fire, made countless trips delivering ammunition from the supply point to the gun. She would often do this alone after breakfesting with her fellow Marines on scrambled eggs and beer.
During the Battle for Outpost Vegas in 1953 Reckless completed 51 solo trips in a single day. The battle raged for 5 days and it is estimated that there were over 1,000 American casualties and twice that number of Chinese. It is regarded as one of the bloodiest battles in Marine Corps history. Reckless was also used to evacuate the wounded all while being wounded twice herself.
In recognition of her incredible war service, she was presented with a special citation for bravery by the Marines and promoted to Sergeant. The Marines personally payed for her travel to the United States where she enjoyed a well-earned retirement, pastured at Camp Pendleton. There Sergeant Reckless was awarded two Purple Hearts, a Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal as well as other military honors. Lest we forget.
For this cache there is an abundance of parking(acres) within a short walking distance. Please bring a pen in order to sign the log and you must sign the log in order to claim the find. A photograph of yourself at this statue is not a requirement but it does make a good background and we would enjoy seeing your smiling photo.
Congratulations to geo202 for making that FTF.