MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- Service members from across the country gathered Jan. 8 to say goodbye to a legend who helped set the standard of the Corps today and remember the life of Lt. Gen. Victor H. Krulak, a Marine who established himself as an integral part of Marine Corps history.

More than 400 people paid their respects to the legendary Marine. The funeral service was conducted by Krulak's son, the Rev. Victor Krulak Jr., a former Navy chaplain.

Robert Coram, a military historian and long-time friend of the Krulak family, gave the eulogy. He spoke of Krulak's integrity and dedication to the Corps. He told the assembled mourners that Krulak was a giant in the Marines, and that through the Corps, his legacy would never fade away.

"The Marines who guard heaven's streets had best be squared away," said Coram.

Krulak was born Jan. 7, 1913, in Denver, and was commissioned a second lieutenant upon graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy May 31, 1934. During his early years, he served aboard the USS Arizona, with the 4th Marines in China, the 1st Marine Brigade, and at the U.S. Naval Academy.

At the beginning of World War II, while serving as aide to Gen. Holland A. Smith, Krulak volunteered for parachute training. After becoming a paramarine, Krulak was ordered to the Pacific where he served as commander of 2nd Parachute Battalion, 1st Marine Amphibious Corps.

In the fall of 1943, while serving as a lieutenant colonel, Krulak earned both a Navy Cross and a Purple Heart for actions while serving with the paramarines on Choiseul Island, where his battalion conducted a week-long diversionary raid as cover for the Bougainville invasion. Krulak also served in the Okinawa campaign where he earned a Legion of Merit with valor device and a Bronze Star.

Once the war ended, Krulak returned to the U.S. where he eventually served as the regimental commander of the 5th Marines until the Korean conflict erupted where he served as chief of staff for the 1st Marine Division. Krulak again earned a Legion of Merit with valor device and an Air Medal.

After the war, Krulak served as the assistant commander of the 3rd Marine Division. Later, he was promoted to major general and assumed command of Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego.

When the United States began combat operations in Vietnam, Krulak was appointed responsible for all Fleet Marine Force units in the Pacific, which included more than 50 trips into the Vietnam theater.

Having proven himself competent as a leader while in combat and during peace time, Krulak ended his long and prestigious career by retiring June 1, 1968.

Krulak’s medals and decorations include: the Navy Cross, the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit with Combat V and two Gold Stars in lieu of second and third awards, the Bronze Star, the Air Medal, the Purple Heart, and a plethora of campaign medals, victory medals, occupation medals and unit citations. Krulak’s legacy continued when his son, Charles C. Krulak, became the 31st Marine commandant.