Marine Commandment Orders Probe into Allegations of Anti-semitic Abuse of Recruit

The Commandant of the United States Marine Corps, Gen. Leonard Chapman, Jr., has ordered a formal investigation of charges that a Marine recruit was brutally treated by non-commissioned officers at the Parris Island. S.C. Marine training base because he is Jewish. The investigation was requested by the Jewish War Veterans of the U.S. after a New York Congressman, Mario Biaggi, brought the case to light.

Rep. Biaggi, a Democrat, said he had evidence that the recruit was singled out for persecution because of his faith and that anti-Semitic harassment and physical assaults caused him to suffer a mental breakdown for which he is presently undergoing treatment at a New York State mental hospital. The recruit, whose name was withheld at his mother’s request, was discharged from the Marine Corps last July “for the convenience of the Government.” According to Rep. Biaggi, the recruit was beaten by noncommissioned officers who allegedly painted a Star of David on his forehead and called him “Jew boy” and “Bagel.”

A Marine Corps spokesman said today that the allegations would be thoroughly examined and that developments in the investigation would be made known by the commanding general of the Parris Island base. He added, “the Commandant does not condone nor will he tolerate maltreatment of any Marine whatever his status. Ever case of alleged maltreatment reported to him is investigated and appropriate action, including disciplinary action where warranted, is taken.”