CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — A peaceful protest outside the main gate of Camp Pendleton has erupted into violence today as Marines and activists continue to spar over military terminology.

The protestors, from People For The Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) have been holding a protest near the base for more than a week against the use of the terms "Leatherneck" and "Wooly-Pully."

A PETA spokesperson said the terms are offensive and "promote animal abuse."

"These words that the Marines use are absolutely horrible," said Jean Richards, a PETA activist. "We will not stand by and let these people continue to promote the killing of animals."

Although no one understands how or why, the mild and peaceful protests soon escalated into chaos.

Private First Class Anthony Smith, a Marine Private currently attending the School of Infantry, reported that he was attacked while attempting to leave base. His t-shirt, which had "Leatherneck" written across the front, became a walking bullseye.

Luckily he was …