Secretary of Defense Visits Depot During Socal Trip by Cpl

More than 500 Marines learn compete in Youth confidence in their Triathlon masks

Pg. 3 Pg. 4 HONOR PLATOON

MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO AND THE WESTERN RECRUITING REGION

Vol. 70 – No. 22 – COMPANY G FRIDAY, AUGUST 20, 2010 Secretary of Defense visits depot during SoCal trip by Cpl. Rebecca A. Lamont Chevron staff

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates, addressed new Marines Aug. 13, during his visit to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. “It takes uncommon per- severance to make it through basic training – just as it takes uncommon patriotism to make the decision to join the military in a time of war,” said Secretary Gates. “But then, as you know, there is nothing common about being a Marine.” During Secretary Gates’ visit here, he served as the parade reviewing officer for the graduating Marines of Company A, 1st Battalion, Recruit Training Regi- ment, toured the recruit training facilities and conducted a press conference with local media. Gates said he has seen the impact Marines have made while in difficult and dangerous condi- tions while on trips to Iraq and Afghanistan. “For my part, I will do all I can to see that you have every- Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates speaks with recruits of Company E, 2nd Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment, as part of his two- thing you need to accomplish day visit to Southern California. “Basic training is only the first step of the journey on which you have embarked. When you leave here, your mission and come home and move on to your permanent assignment, you have the great responsibility of defending our nation and its interests – here at home safely,” said Gates. “Because I and in distant lands,” he said. “It is no easy task, but it is a vital one if the United States is to remain safe, prosperous, and strong.” feel a deep, personal responsibil- Cpl. Rebecca A. Lamont/Chevron ity for and every one of you, as if you were my own sons.” the Corps decided to re-enlist “Personally, it gave me chills for Afghanistan is what happened visited the Navy USS Higgins, Following graduation, he instead,” said Gates. “That tells knowing someone that high up in Iraq. an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer observed recruits at the combat you a few things about United in command came to talk to us “Casualties were initially which is a new, more mobile bal- conditioning course, then spoke States Marines, above all, that recruits,” said Recruit Joshua D. higher, but as we achieved suc- listic missile defense system for the with them afterward. if there’s a fight somewhere, Corral, Platoon 2101, Co. E. “It cess, the numbers declined signifi- future; the Naval Medical Center “When I was at Camp Lejeune Marines want to be in it.” means a lot and is a once-in-a cantly,” he said. at Balboa Park in San Diego; and last year, an officer told me about Gates thanked them for vol- lifetime opportunity I will never Secretary Gates’ visit followed the Navy’s Special Operations one Marine unit whose next unteering to be Marines. forget.” his announcement Aug. 12 to cut Command, where 67 sailors were assignment was switched from “As secretary of defense, one In regard to the campaign in $100 billion from the Defense enduring what is known to be Okinawa to Afghanistan. As a of the true pleasures of my job Afghanistan, Secretary Gates told Department budget over the next “Hell Week” at the Basic Underwa- result, more than 100 Marines is visiting with the troops,” said reporters that the surge is nearly five years. ter Demolition and SEAL training who had planned to get out of Gates. complete, and added that his hope While in California, he also in Coronado, Calif.

Change of Command Col. Patrick G. Looney relinquishes command of Weapons and Field Training Battalion to Lt. Col. Michael N. Castle on WFTBn parade deck aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 16. Looney will be taking command of AFRI- COM Operations and Logis- tics. Cpl Frances Candelaria/Chevron 2 CHEVRON ~ NEWS AND COMMENTARY ~ AUGUST 20, 2010

Depot to host Multi-Cultural Career and Education Fair Marine and Family Services will host a Career and Education Fair Sept. 15, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the depot Heritage Day in September Field House. More than 100 employers and educators will be on-site. Employ- by Cpl. Rebecca A. Lamont Country music, Latin American combo, diverse Americans. Unfortunately, there ment areas being represented are high Chevron staff Philippine music, Indian belly dancing, are some cultures that we don’t know tech, electronics, IT, law enforcement, Japanese cultural dance, a magician, much about, Walker said. Fortune 500, federal agencies, banking, Multi-cultural Heritage Day is sched- salsa and six depot Marines singing “The “Take the opportunity to question colleges and universities, retail and city/ uled to be celebrated at the depot museum Women Marines’ Hymn.” your co-workers and fellow Marines,” said county/state agencies, among others. courtyard Sept. 16 from 2 to 6:30 p.m. “I am making a board for our booth Walker. “Open up and gain knowledge The event is open to military active duty The event’s purpose is to recog- with the theme ‘Women Through His- about their cultures and ask where they and Reserve, family members, military nize achievements, provide a venue for tory,’ including pictures and stories of came from.” retirees, DoD civilians, and other per- education, honor diversity and celebrate prominent female figures like Brig. Gen. Learning about each other can be sonnel with access to military installa- our common heritage-- our American Margaret Brewer, the first female general very beneficial for Marines who travel to tions. For more information or updates, heritage, said Gunnery Sgt. Timothy B. in the Marines,” said Staff Sgt. Rhonda A. foreign countries, Walker said. contact Mina Threat at mina.threat@ Walker, depot equal opportunity advisor, Williams, administrative chief, 2nd Bat- “If you are stationed in a different usmc.mil or (619) 524-1283; or James equal opportunity office. talion, Recruit Training Regiment. country like Japan and you stayed in a Brooks at [email protected] or “We are united in the strength of Williams finds it crucial for everyone, small little box on base, how could you (619) 524-8158. diversity-- a nation of great resources and not just women, to be educated and have a enjoy the different environments and opportunities,” said Walker. “…all of this better understanding of how the equality the impact they have on people?” Walker Whooping Cough vaccine can be attributed to the contributions of females has come a long way and what asked. and achievements of men and women of they have accomplished in the Corps. Observing these environments help available A Whooping Cough vaccine is various racial, cultural and ethnic back- The booths are scheduled to include people learn about themselves and available at NMCSD and branch health grounds.” information on various heritages, like become a more effective people, observ- clinics. NMCSD beneficiaries can be The free celebration is open to all African American, American Indian, ing the good that all cultures have to vaccinated at their primary care clinic. depot personnel and graduating Marines Asian Pacific American, Hispanic, offer, Walker said. NMCSD active duty staff members and their families. It is expected to offer Martin Luther King Jr., women’s equality Walker urges people to understand can be vaccinated at the Military Health food, which may include Hispanic and La and women’s history. and learn to appreciate other cultures, Center in Building 1, 1st floor. NMCSD Oceana cuisine, among others, as well as “We are diverse people,” said Walker. and is enthusiastic to offer this opportu- civilian staff members can receive vac- 12 different forms of entertainment and “Celebrating our differences, as well as nity thorough Multi-Cultural Heritage cination through occupational health. 20 booths displaying different cultures. our common interests, helps unite and Day. Other service members in the San Diego Entertainment is slated to include educate us.” For more information, contact Walker area can be vaccinated at their respec- African dance with drums, bagpipes, The Marine Corps is a great mixture of at (619)-524-8730. tive branch health clinic or wherever they receive their primary healthcare. Call (619) 532-5358 for information about vaccination hours at NMCSD and its branch clinics.

L.I.N.K.S. 4 Kids L.I.N.K.S. 4 Kids is a half-day workshop for elementary school-aged children offered tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bldg. 6E classroom on the depot. The workshop is mentored by volunteers and hosted by Marine Corps Family Team Building staff to help spouses, teens, and children become familiar with the unique Marine Corps lifestyle. Topics include understanding separation and deployments, internet safety, being a good friend, and becoming involved in one’s neighborhood. For more information, call (619) 524-8104.

Activity Mornings for Parents and Tots MCRD L.I.N.K.S. and New Parent Support are sponsoring Activity Morn- ings for Parents and Tots, August 31; from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Bldg. 6E classroom. The event is for parents and their children under five years old. Each month will feature themed Mexican dancers in colorful traditional costumes illustrate some of the cross-cultural heritage for which they are famous. activities to include parent and child- Performers such as these, a Japanese cultural dance troupe, an African dance troupe with drums and bagpipes and booths centered activities such as story time, representing various heritages will mark Multi-Cultural Heritage Day in the depot museum courtyard Sept. 16 from 2 until 6:30 arts and crafts, movement activities, p.m. Larry Dale Gordon snack making and take home ideas. For details or to register, call Patricia Kalaye at (619)524-8104 or Heather Chamberlain at (619) 524-0805.

Back-to-school shots: don’t forget them! Library On-line Tutor TriWest Health Care Alliance women should still continue getting regular exams and Pap The depot library is offering free tests. Additionally, the vaccine does not protect women from resources and on-line tutors to active In the midst of your back-to-school rush, don’t forget about sexually transmitted diseases, including AIDS. duty, reservists, retirees, DoD and the most important stop for your child—the doctor’s office. Flu shots their guests. Professional tutors are Yes, that’s right. Between the running around for new shoes, As the fall rolls around, you’ll want to remember the sea- available to help with math, sci- shirts, fresh pencils and notebooks, part of that back-to-school sonal flu vaccine. It’s a TRICARE-covered benefit and has up to ence, social studies and English from routine should be your child’s vaccinations. a 90 percent success rate in a healthy population, according to elementary to advanced levels. Each The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend the CDC. On top of that, it’s available as a shot or nasal spray. session is anonymous and one-on-one that most children be vaccinated against tetanus, diphtheria, To get the seasonal flu vaccine, those with TRICARE Prime in a secure online classroom. Help hepatitis B, human papilloma virus, measles, mumps and who are enrolled at a military clinic should call the facility to with writing resumes and cover letters rubella. All of these diseases can cause serious health problems find out when the vaccines are available. As long as they receive is also available. A personal username if your children’s shots aren’t up-to-date. the shot, or spray, from a TRICARE network provider—such as and password are needed to access this The HPV Vaccine their primary care manager or a pharmacy—the vaccine is free. service. Visit the depot library to create The HPV vaccine could protect you and your daughters However, some network doctors’ offices may still charge a small an account. For more information, go from cervical cancer. It protects against the four types of HPV co-pay for the visit. to www.usmc-mccs.org or call (619) that cause 70 percent of all cervical cancers. But the vaccine The same rules apply for those using TRICARE Standard 524-1849. will work only if given to girls before they are exposed to the and Extra, or enrolled in TRICARE Prime Remote, as long as virus. the vaccine is administered by a TRICARE-authorized pro- Send briefs to: Women and girls can receive the vaccine at the same time as vider. [email protected]. The other vaccines. The CDC recommends and TRICARE covers All in all, TRICARE will cover age-appropriate vaccina- Chevron staff reserves the right giving the vaccine to females between ages 11 and 26, although tions, as recommended by the CDC. If you’re not sure which to publish only those briefs that girls as young as 9 may get it. vaccinations are covered, you can always ask your doctor, check comply with Department of Defense The vaccine does not protect against every type of HPV TriWest’s immunizations page at www.triwest.com/immuniza- regulations and the standards of the infection and cannot prevent all cervical cancers. Therefore, tions, or call TriWest at 1-888-TRIWEST. U.S. Government. CHEVRON ~ NEWS ~ AUGUST 20, 2010 3 Depot hosts 2010 Junior USA Triathlon Festival by Cpl. Frances Candelaria “It’s my third year on the team and I’m the Chevron staff youngest in our age group,” said Hunter Honeyc- utt, 15, South East Region Elite Team member, Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego hosted team relay first-place winners. “I thought I’d the USA Junior Triathlon Festival 2010 National place in the top twenty. I really didn’t expect to Championship, Aug. 14 and 15. Youth and teens win.” from across the nation came to the depot with During Sunday’s team relay, each team had to high hopes and record-setting goals. have three members with at least one female team This two-day event, sponsored by USA Triath- member. The relay had each competitor complete lon, brought more than 500 athletes from the ages a 250-meter swim, a 5K bike ride and a 2K run. of 7 to 19 to the depot for the opportunity to com- “It’s so exciting (that he and his team won),” pete in 13 different races. The participants were said Marci Honeycutt, mother of Hunter Honeyc- broken down into age groups; Youth, ages 7 to 15 utt. “We started doing this to get in shape. It’s for athletes of all skill levels; Youth Elite, ages 13 not just a sport; it’s a lifestyle, and these events to 15, and Junior Elite, ages 16 to 19. have been such a great experience that we now The athletes started their weekend of events on plan our vacations around them.” the depot with a pre-race clinic Friday afternoon. All of Marine Corps Community Services’ Saturday began with swimmers in the water at efforts to host the event was appreciated by most 7:30 a.m. and ended at 3:30 p.m. with an awards of the attendees. ceremony. Sunday was a shorter day with the first “I would like to thank MCRD for opening ever team relay event with team members ranging up the depot to us and letting this event be held from ages 13 to 19, beginning the swimming por- here,” said Marci Honeycutt. “It has been abso- tion of their race at 8:30 a.m. lutely spectacular. Thank you.”

Tanelle Berard and Tamara Gorman hold hands as they cross the finish line together. They are both the first of their individual Jasen Missailidis, triathlon participant, speeds off on his 5K cycling leg of the team relay race held three-man teams to complete their portion of the relay. on MCRD San Diego, Sunday Aug. 15. Cpl. Frances Candelaria/Chevron Cpl. Frances Candelaria/Chevron

Tanelle Berard, triathlon participant, runs with her bike through the transition area during the team relay race held Aug. 15 of the two-day event on the depot. Cpl. Frances Candelaria/Chevron

PUBLIC AFFAIRS DIRECTOR COMBAT CORRESPONDENTS chevron/public affairs office henderson ave Maj. Michael W. Armistead Cpl. Rebecca Lamont 1600 . #120 san diego, ca. 92140 Cpl. Frances Candelaria (619) 524-8722 DEPUTY DIRECTOR Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas www.marines.mil/unit/tecom/mcrdsandiego/Pages/welcome.aspx ESTABLISHED 1942 Janice M. Hagar Pfc. Emily Cone The Chevron, printed with appropriated funds in compliance with Marine PUBLIC AFFAIRS CHIEF Corps order P5600.31F, is published by Marine Corps Recruit Depot San COMMANDING GENERAL Diego personnel. Opinions and views expressed herein are not necessar- Gunnery Sgt. Laura Gawecki EDITOR Maj. Gen. Ronald L. Bailey ily those of the Marine Corps or the Department of Defense. The Chevron Roger Edwards is promulgated for informational purposes only and in no way should be SERGEANT MAJOR PRESS CHIEF Mail comments to: considered directive in nature. All photos are official USMC property unless Sgt. Maj. Sylvester D. Daniels Cpl. Matthew Brown [email protected] otherwise indicated. 4 CHEVRON ~ FEATURE ~ AUGUST 20, 2010

Sgt. Johnny Sermersky, Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear instructor, Weapons Field Training Battalion, Edson Range, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., burns more chlorobenzylidene Recruit Michael P. Cody takes a moment to catch his breath after his turn in malononitrile capsules, also known as CS gas in the Confidence Chamber, Aug. 9. CS gas is not fatal, but it does cause burning skin, irritation of the nose and throat, coughing, excess mucous and watery the Confidence Chamber.Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron eyes. Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron Co. G recruits get teary-eyed by Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas certain injuries and illnesses. began to cough uncontrollably. Chevron Staff “I expected a painful ache in my “The drill instructors are inside face, and burning,” said Recruit the chamber to stop any recruits who Company G recruits woke before Abraham Rodriguezdiaz, Platoon try to get out,” said Staff Sgt. Matthew the sun rose, hiked a dusty road 2154. Kollhoff, Weapons Field Training riddled with pot holes and gathered Company G’s six platoons were Company, Camp Pendleton, Calif. “If around the Confidence Chamber paired up outside of the Confi- they start to panic, a CBRN instruc- in the hills of Marine Corps Base dence Chamber awaiting the order tor will check his mask and calm him Camp Pendleton, Calif., to feel the to enter. The first two platoons down.” effects of chlorobenzylidene malo- filed into the gas-filled, dark, The recruits had to wait for the nonitrile, commonly known as CS metal room and lined up against CBRN instructor to check that every- gas, Aug. 9. the walls. When the last recruit one broke the seals on their masks CS gas is a non-lethal substance entered, the steel doors slammed before they could reseal them. commonly used as a riot control shut and they were in complete “Do we have confidence in my agent by the military and police. silence, aside from the sound of masks, Golf Company?” said Sermer- The Confidence Chamber is breathing through masks. sky. one of the many annual training While in the chamber, the Through coughing and sniffling, requirements the recruits accom- recruits had to perform three the recruits screamed back with a rum- plish in boot camp. They are intro- exercises. The first was to bend bling, “Yes, sir!” duced to CS gas during the third over and shake their heads for They were instructed to grab the week of field training at Weapons approximately 15 seconds to ensure shoulders of the recruit in front of Field Training Battalion, Edson their masks were secured to their them, and ordered to file out of the Range, Marine Corps Base Camp head and airtight. After that, they chamber through a door opposite of Pendleton, Calif. completed a set of jumping jacks the one that they came in. Before the recruits could enter together to test the mask’s seal. “CS gas affects the respiratory the confidence chamber, they had “When I was in the chamber, it system,” said Sermersky. “There are Company G recruits perform 10, 3-count jumping jacks to test their mask’s seal while in to participate in several classes. wasn’t bad at first, but it was bad burning sensations to the skin and the Confidence Chamber, Aug. 9.Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron Recruits were taught how to when we got to the third exercise,” eyes, irritations to the sinuses and it properly fit and use their masks said Rodriguezdiaz. clears out the lungs.” so they would be familiar with For the last exercise the recruits Though the recruits entered the the equipment and are prepared were told by their Chemical Biolog- Confidence Chamber with hesitancy for a potential chemical attack. ical Radiological Nuclear instruc- and foreboding, they left with a sense The recruits were also screened tor to break the seal on their masks of accomplishment and are now to determine which of them were with two fingers and allow the gas prepared to tackle more challenges physically capable of participat- to enter. As the gas seeped into and overcome new adversities as they ing in the training by checking for their masks, many of the recruits advance in their Marine Corps careers. CHEVRON ~ FEATURE ~ AUGUST 20, 2010 5

Sgt. Johnny Sermersky, Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear instructor, Weapons Field Training Battalion, Edson Range, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., burns more chlorobenzylidene malononitrile capsules, also known as CS gas in the Confidence Chamber, Aug. 9. CS gas is not fatal, but it does cause burning skin, irritation of the nose and throat, coughing, excess mucous and watery eyes. Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron Co. G recruits get teary-eyed began to cough uncontrollably. “The drill instructors are inside the chamber to stop any recruits who try to get out,” said Staff Sgt. Matthew Kollhoff, Weapons Field Training Company, Camp Pendleton, Calif. “If they start to panic, a CBRN instructor will check his mask and calm him down.” The recruits had to wait for the CBRN instructor to check that everyone broke the seals on their masks before they could reseal them. “Do we have confidence in my masks, Golf Company?” said Sermer- sky. Company G recruits hastily exit the Confidence Chamber, holding the shoulder of the Through coughing and sniffling, recruit in front of them as a guide. Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron the recruits screamed back with a rum- bling, “Yes, sir!” They were instructed to grab the shoulders of the recruit in front of them, and ordered to file out of the chamber through a door opposite of the one that they came in. “CS gas affects the respiratory system,” said Sermersky. “There are burning sensations to the skin and eyes, irritations to the sinuses and it clears out the lungs.” Though the recruits entered the Confidence Chamber with hesitancy and foreboding, they left with a sense of accomplishment and are now prepared to tackle more challenges and overcome new adversities as they advance in their Marine Corps careers. Recruit Nicholas Gallagher, Platoon 2149, cleans his Company G recruits break the seal on their gas masks to allow CS gas gas mask after exiting the Confidence Chamber. inside their masks while in the Confidence Chamber, Aug. 9. Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron 6 CHEVRON ~ FEATURE ~ AUGUST 20, 2010 Change of heart leads rugby star to Marines Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas Katz, Platoon 2155, Company and asked him what his plans advice and applied.” bad decision again, he said. Chevron Staff G, spent most of his adolescence were for college, so Katz told him After several months, Katz “The Air Force wouldn’t be preparing himself physically for about his dream of becoming an was accepted to UCLA with a full able to give me enough dis- e is an outstanding his dream. Simultaneously, Katz Air Force pilot because he needed ride AFROTC/ rugby scholarship cipline,” Katz said. “But the student and excellent was preparing himself mentally a college degree. But didn’t know with a major in physics. Marine Corps definitely would.” rugby player and he in school, he said. which college to apply to, he said. After high school graduation, It took a little longer than a already had a full-ride He was an avid learner and a Fortunate for Katz, his coach he was on top of the world said year for Katz to get everything scholarshipH to the college of his good student who strived to be was close to the rugby coach Katz. He loved telling people that cleared with the Air Force and choice through rugby and the Air at the top. All the hard work paid at the University of California, he was going to one of the best UCLA, but when he did he was Force Reserve Officer Training off because he was at the top five Los Angeles. Katz’ coach set up schools in the world for free. at the military entrance process- Corps. percent of his class, he said. a meeting between him and the “During my first quarter, ing station the next day taking He has an ambition that was While Katz cared about his UCLA coach, he said. I began to notice the Marine his armed service vocational channeled into his carefully education, he was also into sports, When Katz met the UCLA Corps commercials more and aptitude battery exam. planned destiny inspired by his he said. Katz was deeply involved coach, he was asked if he had any more,” said Katz. “At first, I paid It took several days to fill out grandfather, Lt. Col. Gerald M. in the district high school rugby interests other than rugby. So he no attention to them, but the the paperwork to withdraw from Katz, a pilot in the Air Force. He team by his senior year. told the coach about his interest more I watched, the harder it was the school, but it took several wanted to be just like him, until “I had only played one sea-son, in the Air Force. to turn away.” months to have the Department he realized in his mind that he but my coach had already noticed “The coach mentioned the Air Although the Corps was nag- of Defense approve the forms wanted to become a Marine. potential in me,” said Katz. Force Reserve Officer Training ging in the back of his mind he and process Katz into the Corps, Lance Cpl. Cody Andrew His coach pulled him aside Corps,” said Katz. “So I took the still wanted to fulfill his dream he said. of being in the Air Force, he said. One week later, Feb. 16, Katz “I didn’t want to satisfy my enlisted in the United States desire to get a closer look at the Marine Corps. He arrived on the Corps,” said Katz. “I was dead set depot, May 24. on my goal, nothing was going “The uniform in the office to stop me, plus I had school to is one of the things that really worry about.” pushed me through the hard Regardless of how determined parts of boot camp,” said Katz. he was Katz still had the Corps “I wanted to be one of the eight in his thoughts, he said. to graduate in my full dress blue With the Marines in the uniform because I was guide.” back of his mind during his first The fact that the Marine Corps quarter of college, he made a trip only wears their Dress Blues to the Marine recruiter’s office, for special occasions shows the just to get some information and professionalism of the Marines, then be on his way, Katz said. he said. “Two weeks into my next Katz will be graduating in his quarter, the sight of the Marine full dress blue uniform because dress blue alphas that were he was the guide for Platoon 2155 hanging in the recruiter’s office the entire time he was at boot became steadily clearer and camp, according to Staff Sgt. clearer in my mind’s eye,” said Johnathan Conwill, senior drill Katz. instructor, Company G, Platoon The uniform not only helped 2155. him decide he wanted to become “He demonstrated pretty good a Marine, but stayed in his mind leadership,” said Conwill. “Katz through trials to come. was the platoon guide from day Katz was associating with one. Being a team captain for a bad crowd and made some rugby, he had an idea of what it wrong decisions in early, 2009. meant to lead a team. Recruit “I was scared to death that I training is about teamwork so it was going to lose my scholarships was natural to him. and be dropped from UCLA,” “He demonstrates good moral said Katz. He notified his com- courage and the ability to lead mander about what had hap- by example,” said Conwill. “He pened, and his commander told shows a strong level of maturity Katz that he was safe and wasn’t for his age. The other recruits going to lose either scholarship, follow him because they notice he said. the maturity.” About a week after her Katz can’t wait to show the returned to school he couldn’t Marine Corps what he has help but return to the recruiter, learned from his drill instruc- he said. tors, said Katz. “My eyes instantly clicked to “I want to make my senior the uniform and I had finally drill instructor proud,” said had enough of just imagining Katz. them,” Katz said. “I went to my Lance Cpl. Katz doesn’t need commander and told him that I to worry. His senior drill instruc- wanted to cancel the scholarship tor will be watching for him. Lance Cpl. Cody Katz checks the alignment of his platoon’s rifles, as they were staged behind the and withdraw from the school.” “I look forward to seeing him parade deck here, Aug. 8. The rifles were staged in preparation to go to the Crucible. If any were out Katz knew that he needed the succeed in his Marine Corps of alignment he would direct his squad leaders where to adjust them. Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron discipline to never make another career,” said Conwill.

Sgt. Maj. Robert C. In 1991, Hollings was deployed in executed missions in Amman, Jordan; Service Medal, Navy Meritorious Unit support of Operations Desert Shield Krakow, Poland; Senegal, Africa; Commendation, Navy Unit Commen- Hollings and Desert Storm. In March 1993, Abuja, Nigeria and countless missions dation, and the Joint Meritorious Unit Hollings reported to Headquarters, throughout the United States in sup- Award. Parade Reviewing Officer Marine Corps, where he served as a port of the President. supply monitor. Upon promotion to In June 2004, Hollings was assigned A native of Florida, Sergeant Major first sergeant, Hollings was assigned to the position of sergeant major, Hollings enlisted in the Marine Corps to 3rd Force Service Support Group Parris Island, South Carolina. During in July 1979. He has completed all res- and deployed with Combat Service January 2007, he was assigned to his ident and non-resident PMEs required Support Det-33 and 44 in support final position as sergeant major for for enlisted Marines. of Operations Freedom Banner and the 3rd Marine Division. As a junior Marine, he picked up Cobra Gold. He was then reassigned Hollings retired on May 21 in lance corporal and corporal meri- to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii after 31 years of toriously. Hollings reported to Drill Unit, where during his tour with service. Instructor School, MCRD San Diego, the MEU, was promoted to sergeant Hollings’ decorations include the as a noncommissioned officer in major. Meritorious Service Medal (fourth October 1987. Upon completion of Hollings’ first duty as a sergeant award), the Navy and Marine Corps Drill Instructor School, Hollings major was with 3rd Force Service Sup- Commendation Medal, the Navy and was assigned to 1st Recruit Train- port Group, Supply Battalion, ser- Marine Corps Achievement Medal ing Battalion where he served as drill geant major. Upon returning from an (second award), Global War on Terror- instructor, senior drill instructor, and overseas tour duty, he was assigned to ism Service Medal, National Defense series chief drill instructor. While Recruiting Station, Jacksonville, Flor- Service Medal (second award), Korean serving aboard MCRD San Diego, he ida. In April 2002, he was then trans- Defense Service Medal, Kuwait Libe- was promoted to staff sergeant and ferred to assume the duties of sergeant rian Medal (Kuwait), Kuwait Libera- was subsequently promoted meritori- major, Marine Helicopter Squadron tion Medal (Saudi Arabia), Southwest ously to the rank of gunnery sergeant. One, Quantico Virginia, where he Asia Service Medal, the Humanitarian CHEVRON ~ GRADUATING COMPANY ~ AUGUST 20, 2010 7

Platoon 2155 Platoon 2150 Platoon 2149 Platoon 2151 Platoon 2153 Platoon 2154 Platoon 2149 Platoon 2151 COMPANY HONOR MAN SERIES HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN HIGH SHOOTER (333) HIGH PFT (300) Lance Cpl. C. A. Katz Pfc. M. K. Bridgewater Pfc. B. L. Gordon Pfc. L. A. Nunez Pfc. J. Chassagne Jr. Pfc. A. Venikov Pfc. B. J. Arroyo Pfc. L. Permowicz Newhall, Calif. Scottsburg, Ind. Peoria, Ariz. Pantego, Texas Chicago Rancho Cordova, Calif. Bakersfield, Calif. St. Louis Recruited by Recruited by Recruited by Recruited by Recruited by Recruited by Marksmanship Instructor Recruited by Sgt. D. P. Conforti Staff Sgt. M. D. Wagner Sgt. K. K. Alvarado Staff Sgt. R. M. Prunell Sgt. G. Gama Jr. Staff Sgt. J. L. Molina Sgt. L. A. Catts Staff Sgt. I. M. Tarore GOLF COMPANY 2ND RECRUIT TRAINING PLATOON 2150 Pvt. R. A. Rodriguez Pfc. E. D. Scruggs Pfc. B. C. Fuentes BATTALION Senior Drill Instructor *Pfc. R. A. Rodriguez Pvt. E. C. Slack Pvt. M. D. Gonzalez Commanding Officer Staff Sgt. J. P. Tennison Pfc. N. J. Ropchock Pvt. S. M. Trafter Pvt. Z. B. Gronau Lt. Col. R. L. Hairston Drill Instructors Pvt. J. R. Rupp Pfc. E. P. Vanderwilt Pvt. J. M. Gunneson Sergeant Major Staff Sgt. G. C. Guevarra Pvt. F. J. Santoyo Pvt. A. L. Vasquez Pvt. R. A. Hambright Sgt. Maj. M. J. O’Loughlin Staff Sgt. J. D. Halverson Pfc. P. S. Schuiteman Pvt. C. C. Heath Executive Officer Staff Sgt. R. E. Jackson Pvt. J. E. Shulte PLATOON 2154 Pvt. E. L. Hernandez Maj. L. J. LeVine Pvt. N. A. Skaggs Senior Drill Instructor Pvt. J. Herrera Battalion Drill Master Pvt. R. S. Abernathy Pvt. B. A. Southwick Staff Sgt. S. Khan Pfc. M. J. Himes Staff Sgt. E. O. Hidalgo Pvt. S. C. Amsden Pvt. D. L. Stanton Drill Instructors Pvt. T. E. Houle Chaplain Pvt. L. A. Ancheta Pvt. S. L. Stone Staff Sgt. W. S. Crespin *Pfc. J. C. Howard Lt. Cmdr. G. B. Younger Pvt. M. E. Arana Pvt. M. W. Templeton Staff Sgt. B. E. Price Pfc. M. L. Huang Pvt. L. W. Archibald Pvt. S. J. Tober Staff Sgt. R. R. Ramirez Pvt. W. T. Hudson COMPANY G Pvt. A. X. Arline Pvt. J. J. Town Sgt. D. Hernandez Jr. Pvt. A. Huss Commanding Officer Pfc. M. E. Barker Pvt. J. J. Tsang Pvt. D. T. Jackson Capt. R. C. Higgins Pvt. J. M. Bearup *Pfc. J. D. Valdez Pvt. A. M. Koci Pvt. J. C. Jones Company First Sergeant Pvt. N. O. Becerra-Castro Pvt. A. C. Vaughan Pfc. B. M. Landowski Pfc. L. Kameen III 1st Sgt. R. C. Ixtlahuac Pvt. F. Bennet Pfc. A. J. Venegas Pfc. P. C. Landry *Lance Cpl. C. A. Katz Pvt. J. A. Betancourt Pfc. E. I. Ventura Pvt. J. V. Le Pvt. E. A. Kerntke SERIES 2149 Pfc. E. J. Blair Pvt. B. Viernes Jr. Pvt. H. G. Loebbecke Pvt. A. B. Khuns Series Commander *Pfc. M. K. Bridgewater Pvt. S. L. Waller Pfc. K. D. Macagba Pvt. K. B. Lindsey Capt. D. Verderame Pvt. B. M. Bullin Pfc. J. B. West Pvt. J. A. Mace Pvt. S. M. Lindsey Jr. Chief Drill Instructor Pvt. S. M. Burchfield Pvt. A. C. Marroney *Pfc. M. F. Martinez Staff Sgt. J. C. Hernandez Pfc. E. J. Cermak SERIES 2153 Pfc. M. P. Martinez Pfc. B. A. Minnich Pvt. C. J. Coleman Series Commander Pfc. J. A. Matlock Pfc. R. Miranda Jr. PLATOON 2149 Pvt. T. D. Craven Capt. S. L. Sandoval Pvt. R. C. McIntosh Pvt. A. D. Pitts-Fugate Senior Drill Instructor Pvt. T. D. Craven Chief Drill Instructor Pvt. J. M. Meppelink Pvt. S. A. Reis Staff Sgt. S. Guzman Pvt. R. B. Decker Staff Sgt. E. M. Cabrera Pvt. L. A. Mooney Pvt. R. R. Swanson Drill Instructors Pvt. C. M. Delaney Pvt. A. J. Morris Staff Sgt. A. Diaz Pfc. J. M. Deleon PLATOON 2153 Pvt. T. S. Murphy Staff Sgt. J. A. Martinez Pfc. M. F. Deleon Senior Drill Instructor *Pfc. C. Pinon Sgt. J. L. Russell Pfc. J. D. Elkins Sgt. L. F. Medina *Pfc. S. V. Ramsden Pfc. P. M. Flynn Drill Instructors Pvt. A. Rodriguez-Diaz Pfc. J. R. Anderson IV Pfc. K. H. Gannaway Sgt. C. W. Battaglia Pfc. T. W. Schlittenhart Pfc. B. J. Arroyo *Pfc. U. N. Hansel Sgt. D. P. Chavez Pvt. L. E. Sierra Pfc. J. P. Ashley Pvt. J. C. Johnson Sgt. P. G. Sheedy Pvt. J. D. Simpson Pvt. H. G. Barrientos Pfc. E. J. Pendergast Sgt. L. B. Soderbery Pfc. M. D. Small Pfc. C. T. Bergman Pvt. N. C. Riojas Pvt. S. C. Spradling *Meritorious Pfc. M. R. Bigham Pfc. S. A. Roth Pfc. V. Anson Pvt. A. C. Stanislav promotion Pvt. J. D. Boudreau Pfc. J. G. Skluzacek Pvt. M. A. Applegate Pfc. R. B. Starks Pvt. B. K. Brown Pfc. K. M. Weidenbach Jr. Pfc. C. A. Ashworth Pfc. B. P. Thompson Pvt. K. R. Brus Pfc. W. T. Winans Pvt. E. T. Baderdeen Pfc. L. P. Tkach Pfc. J. W. Carter Pvt. J. N. Valenzuela Pvt. T. M. Barrett Pfc. R. P. Trainor Pvt. K. D. Cluck Pvt. A. S. Bixler Pvt. X. Vang Pfc. M. N. Cushman PLATOON 2151 *Pfc. J. Chassagne Jr. Pfc. A. Venikov Pvt. D. L. Daniels Senior Drill Instructor Pvt. R. S. Christian Pfc. J. P. Vernon Pvt. K. L. Decker Sgt. J. K. Spray Pvt. M. T. Couey Pvt. J. J. Villenueva Pvt. I. C. De Guzman Drill Instructors Pvt. D. A. Fidermak Pvt. L. G. Voight Pfc. P. A. Diehl II Sgt. D. C. Downing Pfc. B. J. Filipp Pfc. J. Z. Vrooman Pfc. J. F. Dunbar Sgt. J. F. Hernandez Pvt. N. J. Genovese Pvt. D. J. Wamsley Pvt. A. A. Erickson Sgt. C. J. Marcus Pvt. M. W. Harrison Pfc. T. J. Zieman Pvt. J. M. Foley Sgt. Y. Sesay Pfc. J. C. Hartman Pfc. M. J. Foster Pfc. B. C. Heath PLATOON 2155 Pfc. M. S. Frosch Pfc. D. G. Dillender Pfc. B. S. Henry Senior Drill Instructor Pfc. N. C. Gallagher Pfc. J. Ford Pvt. D. K. Hlad Staff Sgt. J. R. Conwill Pfc. C. G. Gauthier Pfc. C. R. Johnson Pvt. T. S. Holloman Drill Instructors *Pfc. J. E. Gilbreath Pfc. B. L. Kizer Pfc. D. J. Hutchings Staff Sgt. J. Cervantes Pvt. C. J. Goodshield Pvt. D. P. Masten Pvt. B. D. Kimball Drill Instructor *Pfc. B. L. Gordon Pfc. A. Moreno Pfc. J. W. Kinne Sgt. V. A. Black Pvt. R. L. Gutierrez Pfc. G. W. Noble *Pfc. D. J. Koehne Sgt. A. J. Cole Pvt. S. Gutierrez Pfc. L. A. Nunez Pfc. C. J. Leal Sgt. J. A. Felix Pfc. R. E. Hampton Pfc. C. N. Ogembo Pvt. P. L. Marx Pvt. G. T. Hancock Pfc. R. D. Paclibar Pvt. T. N. Nagao Pvt. M. P. Cody Pvt. M. R. Hayes Pvt. C. J. Paskevicius Pvt. M. J. Nasadowski Pfc. T. Dipiazza Pvt. D. J. Howell Pvt. L. Permowicz Pfc. T. W. Noyes Pvt. C. M. Dunham Pfc. M. J. Peterson Pfc. R. A. Poirier Pfc. R. G. Polacek Pvt. C. Durek Pfc. Z. D. Truskolaski Pvt. D. C. Reynolds Pfc. G. N. Ramakrishnan Pfc. A. A. Esquivel 8 CHEVRON ~ FEATURE ~ AUGUST 20, 2010 H & S Battalion celebrates summer by Pfc. Emily Cone active children, such as a blow-up obstacle Chevron Staff course, a bouncey house, pony rides, and for older patrons there was paintball and ore than 200 servicemem- volley ball. bers, civilians and their Sgt. Maria Salcedo, noncommissioned families turned out for officer-in-charge, facilities division, said Headquarters and Service’s she was glad to be able to bring her daugh- BattalionM Summer Fun Day at the boat ter to an event like this. house lawn here, Aug. 6 “My daughter enjoyed the pony ride,” The free event featured free barbeque as she said. well as a plethora of family-friendly activi- Armor of Light provided the food and ties, such as games, a petting zoo, artists drinks for the event, to include popcorn, and music, balloon animals, face paint- cotton candy and snow cones. ing, and a caricaturist who made cartoon The balloon animals, provided by Proj- drawings. ect Prayer Flag, ranged from simple shapes Lance Cpl. Ethan McDaniel, french like a snake to complex winged dragons. horn player, Marine Band San Diego A disc jockey provided music, and chil- ,showed a drawing of himself in a super- dren and adults danced. hero costume and said he enjoyed the “For the kids, the pony ride was nice,” caricature artist. said Staff Sgt. Robert Moran, postal chief, “I thought the variety of the entertain- postal section, Headquarters Company. ment was incredible,” McDaniel said. “For me, I enjoyed the camaraderie with There were also hands-on events for the Marines and family.”

Lance Cpl. Miguel Hernandez, clarinet player, Marine Band San Diego, gets in Lance Cpl. Abraham Lopez, an administrative clerk with the assistant chief of staff some target practice with a paintball gun during the H & S Battalion Summer Fun recruiting office, makes snow cones as part of the many activities provided at the Day here. Pfc. Emily Cone/Chevron battalion’s Summer Fun Day. Pfc. Emily Cone/Chevron

Gunnery Sgt. Trace Bolding, Headquarters and Service Battalion, slides down the end of a blow-up obstacle course, August 6, during Headquarters and Service Battal- ion Family Summer Fun event on the Boat House lawn. Pfc. Emily Cone/Chevron