The 1/9 Association was founded officially in Washington D.C in 1989. But it was truly founded the day 17 year old Roger Liggon signed up for the United States Marine Corps. He was assigned to the legendary 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, forging deep bonds with his brothers that would only grow stronger. 

He was a Marine among Marines but eventually he was to be reassigned out of the 1/9. He pleaded to stay, “I didn’t want to leave my guys”. Yet he had to and served with distinction until he was honorably discharged. 

Years later, a civilian but still a Marine, Roger heard about a Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home event in Cleveland, Ohio, where one of his fellow 1/9ers was from. Turns out his brother wasn’t the only 1/9 veteran in the area. He collected contact information to stay in touch, and created a newsletter to do just that. The list grew. 5 copies turned to 50 to over 500. 

This momentum built toward the first official reunion in Washington D.C. He expected 50 veterans. Over 150 arrived. This gathering was the moment a modest newsletter transformed into a national organization. The moment when one man’s vision and persistence ensured The Walking Dead would live on and live well.