True, but at least they wont waste away in some back lot or be chopped up. Think of the FA2s that were at the top of their game and were given up. Imagine if the USMC had stepped up and bought them to suppliment the current AV-8B II+.
The article spoke of ripping out the British equipement, but that doesn't make any sense. The GR9s are the most capable ground-attack Harriers, IMO. Their extra hardpoints, plus modern electronics suite. It doesn't make sense to take a step back. Train on that gear and move forward.
As for the F/A-18Ds, the USMC should jump on the Super Hornet deal. The F-35B is not a sure thing anymore. They've kept the Deltas limping along waiting on it, but they've run out of time.
This is a smart move!