Dave Robles: From Military To Movies
“If you do it, do it right. You gotta like what you’re doing.”
Dave Robles, USMC retired
Rippling waves caressing sparkling white sand, dolphins frolicking beneath the glow of a setting sun, Spanish moss billowing from ancient oaks; these scenes make the Lowcountry special as well as a haven for film production. The picturesque landscape not only attracts filmmakers but people from across the country, and around the world, especially military retirees. After serving in the United States Marine Corps for thirty plus years, Dave Robles retired to Beaufort. On the other side of the Parris Island Bridge, not far from where his military career began, Dave greets customers of all ages who enter his shop, Der Teufelhund, German for Devil Dog. The name was given to the Marines during WWI by the Germans after the Battle of Belleau Wood in 1918 due to the ferocity of their fighting. Dealing in military uniforms and paraphernalia for twenty-one years, Dave not only has a rich military service but a dramatic side as well.
Growing up in the small town of Elizabeth, New Jersey, one of twelve siblings, Dave’s enlistment in the Marine Corps was purely happenstance. “It was a fluke. I was standing on the street corner with three of my friends, it’s what you did in New Jersey, when we noticed a sign for free coffee and donuts at the recruiting station. We walked the few blocks and went in. Each of my friends joined the Army, Navy, and Air Force, which left the Marine Corps for me.” Dave graduated from the Marine Corps Training Depot at Parris Island in 1958. From there, he served in the Cuban Crisis in 1962, followed by two tours in Vietnam. After retiring as a Sergeant Major in 1988, Dave was recalled, one of five people in the state of South Carolina, to serve in Desert Storm in 1991. Little did he know the real life drama he lived as a Marine would someday morph into on-screen and reenactment drama in his civilian life.
Engrossed in Marine Corps history, Dave began collecting vintage Marine uniforms and memorabilia. Forty years later he has amassed an extensive collection of vintage and antique artifacts, beginning with “an old model 37 barracks cap emblem.” His favorite piece in the collection is a circa 1900 dress blue uniform. “I used to fit into it but not now,” he chuckles. Much of the collection was obtained from military and collector shows around the country, although his preferred venue was the ‘The Great Western’ in California.
Years later his treasure trove of Marine Corps history would bring Hollywood and documentary directors to Dave’s door in search of vintage uniforms for on-screen footage. Pieces of his collection have been seen in such films as The General’s Daughter (1999) with John Travolta. “They needed hundreds of uniforms and boots.” Other movies utilizing items include, Forrest Gump (1994), GI Jane (1997) starring Demi Moore, and Rules of Engagement (2000).
However, the Hollywood connection did not end there. Dave was an extra in two locally filmed movies. The first of his cinematic experiences was the 1989 TV movie, Night Walk, starring Robert Urich and Leslie-Ann Downes filmed in downtown Beaufort. Dave also appeared as an extra in the major motion picture, Rules of Engagement, co-starring Tommy Lee Jones and Samuel L. Jackson. When asked about his favorite aspect of working on-set, he responded with a broad smile, “the food.” Dave’s most recent encounter with film was an interview for an upcoming documentary commemorating the centennial celebration of the Marine Corps Training Depot at Parris Island.
Dave’s dramatic endeavors extend beyond the movie screen. “I participated in a play with the Beaufort Little Theater in the early 1990s when I was working on my degree in Anthropology at USCB. The professor said he would give an ‘A’ to anyone who took part in the theater production. Although I acted in the play I didn’t receive an ‘A’ which upset me. When I asked the professor why I didn’t get an ‘A’ he said he didn’t like my acting!”
Years ago, while working part-time at the Parris Island museum, Dave and three other gentlemen accepted an invitation to participate in a weekend of WWII reenacting in Reading, Pennsylvania. The “Living History Detachment,” partially funded by the Parris Island Historical and Museum Society of which Dave was founding President, journeys north annually. “We participate in a weekend long event that transports us back in time to 1945.” Vintage and reproduction pieces are used to recreate an accurate portrayal and presentation. “It’s an amazing experience with period correct vehicles, bicycles, uniforms, camping equipment, weapons, music, food, even the soda cans are authentic. Last year there were 10,000 spectators with thousands of reenactors presenting one of the WWII battles.” Of course, Dave’s portrayal is that of a Marine.
“For anyone interested in joining the hobby you need to save your money. Period correct attire and equipment can be very expensive. If you do it, do it right. You gotta like what you’re doing. I enjoy meeting people, it’s all worth it.” Dave’s eyes sparkled as he described camping with the Pacific Theater group in 1945 style. “The battle is followed by the flag raising of Mt. Suribachi. It’s a moving experience.” Some of the young reenactors have been inspired to join the Marine Corps after speaking with Dave. “I encourage them and then I attend their graduations at Parris Island.”
Another avenue of historic reenacting is his portrayal of a Vietnam Marine for recruits on Parris Island as part of the Crucible training. The recitation enacts the various eras of USMC battle history. “It brings the pride of our history to life for the recruits and touches them deeply, bringing some to tears.”
When not working in his shop, or participating in film or reenacting activities, Dave enjoys reading the classics, such as A Tree Grows in Brooklyn or Grapes of Wrath. His favorite film, not surprisingly, is the 1949 movie starring John Wayne, Sands of Iwo Jima. He reveres the acting talents of Robert Duvall and, in addition to military movies, enjoys suspense and detective genres.
Dave lives with his wife and their dog, a well-loved Australian Shepard mix. Of his seven children, his eldest daughter served in the Navy and his oldest grandson recently graduated from USMC boot camp in San Diego. Dave’s younger brother also served in the Marine Corps, attending boot camp at Parris Island when Dave was a Drill Instructor there. “He followed in my footsteps, I challenged him.”
Dave’s work ethic, ambition to learn new things, and community presence is evident. “I would like more experience with film as I consider it a challenge.” He continues to serve the community by sharing displays and his love of military history with students at area schools. Dave’s motto is a simple, but powerful sentiment, speaking to his strong sense of duty to country and community. “Semper Paratus, Semper Fidelis. Always ready, always faithful.”
Dave welcomes anyone interested in WWII reenacting to contact him at his shop, Der Teufelhund, at 843-521-9017 for more information.
Story by Kim Poovey
Photography by JOHN WOLLWERTH
