For decades, the term “Jarhead” has been slung around as a playful jab at Marines—a nickname born during World War II, poking fun at either their perceived hard-headedness or the stiff appearance of their dress blues. Every Marine knows it, wears it with a mix of pride and humor. But with each generation, the jokes evolve. And for those who served during the Global War on Terror, a new nickname emerged—“Crayon Eater” or “Crayon Muncher.”
No one is quite sure exactly when or where it started, but it took hold like wildfire, becoming this generation's version of “Jarhead.” Marines embraced it with the same self-deprecating humor that had long been part of their culture. “Yeah, we eat crayons,” they’d laugh, turning the insult into a badge of honor.
It was within this culture that the idea for a unique action figure was born—a character that would celebrate this shared joke while paying homage to the bond and humor that Marines hold dear.
Nick Morley had always been a creator at heart. He ran a small engraving and 3D printing business alongside his father, Robert Morley. Together, they crafted custom pieces, turning their workshop into a place where imagination met reality. One day, Nick found himself chatting with his friend and fellow 2/7 Marine, William Van Cleve. The two had been through their share of ups and downs together, their bond forged in the unforgiving crucible of Marine Corps life.
Nick was looking for fresh ideas to expand his product line. “Got anything cool we could print?” he asked William, half-joking but always open to inspiration.
The wheels started turning. William described a design—a little critter that embodied the humor and pride of every Marine who had ever been called a crayon muncher. It was playful, absurd, and undeniably Marine.
When Nick brought the prototype to life on his printer with the help of his mother, Torri Morley's passion for art and hand painting of the critter, they both knew immediately: this was more than just an item for sale on facebook. This was something special. This was something that needed to be shared with Marines everywhere.
They quickly realized the potential. Sure, there had been plenty of crayon-themed products aimed at Marines before—gag gifts, edible crayons, shirts—but nothing like this. This was a character, something you could hold in your hand, put on your desk, or pass down to the next generation. It had that same spirit that made G.I. Joe a household name. It was more than just a toy; it was a symbol of the unique brotherhood and humor that defined Marines.
So, they got to work. Patent applications were filed, plans for production were drawn up, and the little crayon muncher began its journey from an idea between two brothers-in-arms to a product ready to hit the market. And just the man to do it, they brought on fellow retired Marine, Jesse Clark who found avenues for manufacture and networking! Jesse and William, while being in different generations of Marine, are from the same Hometown in Lynden Wa.
For Nick, William and Jesse, it was never just about making a buck. It was about bringing a little joy and laughter to Marines past and present. It was about honoring their service, their resilience, and their ability to laugh in the face of anything.
With every figure that ships out, they hope it carries that same spirit—the same camaraderie that bonds every Marine, from the grizzled WWII vet who wore “Jarhead” like a badge of honor, to the young lance corporal laughing with his buddies over their latest box of crayons.
