In their search for a technical advisor for the 1949 film Sands of Iwo Jima, actor John Wayne and Republic Pictures turned to Graves Erskine, a distinguished military figure known for his impressive background.
Very few could match his extensive experience in the US Marine Corps. Erskine’s military career spanned from World War I through his involvement in the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II. One of his most well-known assignments came in 1921, when he was entrusted with the solemn duty of returning the remains of the Unknown Soldier from Le Havre, France, to the United States.
Graves Erskine’s upbringing and early life
Born in 1897 in Columbia, Louisiana, Graves Erskine exhibited remarkable intelligence from a young age. Achieving valedictorian status at the age of 15, he graduated at the top of his high school class. Erskine continued his academic journey at Louisiana State University before embarking on a military career by enlisting in the Louisiana National Guard.
His commitment to his nation became apparent when he responded to the call of duty along the Mexican border in 1916. After this service, he resumed his academic pursuits, completing his studies the following year. Concurrently with his education, Erskine joined the US Marine Corps Reserve and received his commission as a second lieutenant in the same year.
Graves Erskine’s service during World War I
In January 1918, Graves Erskine went to France as a platoon leader with the 6th Marine Regiment. Although the First World War had less than a year remaining, the Marine participated in several crucial and high-profile battles, notably the renowned Battle of Belleau Wood. Taking place from June 1-26, 1918, during the German spring offensive, the engagement was a pivotal moment in US Marine Corps history, solidifying the service’s reputation as a battle-ready force.
Erskine also played a role in the Battle of Château-Thierry, where he sustained injuries. Additionally, he was wounded during the Saint-Mihiel Offensive in September 1918, an operation in which Gen. John Pershing aimed to break through the German line and capture Metz.
Following these experiences, he was repatriated to the United States, where he underwent nine surgeries and spent over a year in the hospital.
Transporting the Unknown Soldier
In 1921, Graves Erskine served aboard the USS Olympia (C-6) as a captain, alongside fellow Marines, entrusted with the solemn mission of repatriating the body of an unidentified soldier – known as the Unknown Soldier – back to the United States.
The casket was securely fastened to Olympia‘s deck, and Erskine assigned his men to keep a vigilant watch over it in shifts lasting four hours each. During the return journey, the ship navigated through the Tampa Bay hurricane, one of the most intense storms in US history. Despite the tumultuous seas, Olympia‘s crew faithfully fulfilled their duty by safeguarding the Unknown Soldier.
Upon the vessel’s arrival in Washington, DC, a dedicated team of Marines carefully carried the casket off the ship, while their comrades stood in salute, paying their respects to the Unknown Soldier.
Graves Erskine’s service during World War II
In 1928, Graves Erskine was deployed to Nicaragua as part of the 2nd Marine Brigade. His responsibilities expanded as he served as a bodyguard for Nicaraguan President José María Moncada Tapia, a role stemming from his involvement with the Nicaragua National Guard Detachment. Erskine also led a battalion in operations against bandits in the northern regions of the country.
Throughout the interwar period, Erskine steadily climbed the ranks. At the outset of World War II, he became the chief of staff for the Amphibious Force, Atlantic Fleet and, in September 1942, he held the same role with the Amphibious Corps, Pacific Fleet. His contributions in the Pacific Theater led to his promotion to brigadier general the following year.
Erskine played a significant role in several offensives, including on Tinian, Saipan and the Kwajalein Atoll. However, his most noteworthy moment came during the Battle of Iwo Jima.
Following a promotion to major general, Erskine assumed command of the 3rd Marine Division, one of the key US military units involved in the assault on Iwo Jima. The American victory, reminiscent of the valor displayed at Belleau Wood, solidified its place as one of the Marine Corps’ most iconic engagements.
Graves Erskine’s later life
After World War II, Erskine continued serving in the military. His first post-war projects included creating programs to help Marines transition smoothly into civilian life. He was then called to Washington to take on the role of administrator for the Retraining and Reemployment Administration (RRA).
Following his time in the nation’s capital, Erskine returned to active duty, leading Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. He also became the deputy commander of Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. In July 1951, he became the commanding general of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, where he served until his retirement in 1953. Upon leaving the Marine Corps, he was honored with a promotion to four-star general, reflecting his bravery in combat.
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On May 21, 1973, the esteemed Marine passed away in Bethesda, Maryland, at the age of 75. He was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.
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