Decades-Long Marine Pact Culminates in Final Act of Brotherhood at 2017 Funeral

Master Sergeant William H. Cox, a retired U.S. Marine from South Carolina, honored a nearly 50-year-old pact with his comrade, First Sergeant James T. Hollingsworth, by standing guard over his casket and delivering his eulogy in 2017. The profound bond between the two Marines, forged under fire during the Vietnam War, exemplifies the Marine Corps motto of "Semper Fidelis," or "Always Faithful."

The extraordinary promise originated on New Year’s Eve 1968, as Cox and Hollingsworth sought cover in a bunker amidst a brutal attack in Vietnam’s Marble Mountains. Believing they might not survive the night, they vowed to contact each other every New Year’s Eve if they lived. This commitment was upheld without fail for almost five decades, a testament to their enduring loyalty.

"In 1968, while taking cover in a bunker during a brutal attack in Vietnam’s Marble Mountains, Cox and his fellow Marine, First Sergeant James T. Hollingsworth, believed they might not survive the night. In that moment, they made a pact: if they lived, they would contact each other every New Year’s Eve," the social media post detailed.

When Hollingsworth became terminally ill, he made a final request of Cox: to stand vigil at his funeral and deliver the eulogy. In 2017, at 83 years old, Cox fulfilled this solemn duty, standing tall without his cane, demonstrating unwavering dedication to his brother-in-arms. News reports from the time highlighted Cox's resolve, noting his refusal to use his usual walking aid during the ceremony.

"Years later, when Hollingsworth fell terminally ill, he asked Cox for one last act of loyalty: to stand guard over his casket and deliver the eulogy at his funeral. In 2017, at the age of 83, Cox kept his word. Standing tall and refusing to use his cane, he honored his brother-in-arms one final time," the tweet further elaborated.

This poignant story resonated widely, underscoring the deep bonds formed within military service and the lifelong commitment often shared among veterans. It serves as a powerful reminder of the personal sacrifices made and the profound relationships cultivated in the crucible of combat. Cox's final act for Hollingsworth cemented a legacy of fidelity that transcends the battlefield.