Helmet for My Pillow: From Parris Island to the Pacific

Chapter 5 examines the culture of Marines who frequently find themselves in military prison, or “the brig,” exploring both the rebellious spirit that leads to their confinement and the harsh realities of brig life. Leckie argues that some of the most effective soldiers are those with independent minds who inevitably clash with rigid military discipline.

On George Washington’s birthday in 1943, Leckie and his friend Chuckler deliberately skipped the 1st Marine Division’s ceremonial parade through Melbourne, Australia, choosing instead to watch from a city club while drinking. They continued drinking heavily throughout the day. That evening, Chuckler was assigned guard duty at the camp canteen despite his intoxicated state. When he temporarily left his post, Leckie took over his duties and weapon. Lieutenant Ivy League—whom Leckie resented for previously stealing Leckie’s cigars—approached the guard post, and Leckie drew the pistol and threatened the officer with profane language. This act of threatening a superior with a firearm was one of the most serious military offenses possible.

After their arrest, Leckie faced court-martial before the battalion commander, nicknamed “Mr. Five-by-Five.” Despite the gravity of threatening an officer with a weapon, Leckie received a surprisingly lenient sentence: five days on bread and water with a reduction to private rank.