marine corps air station miramar, Calif December 10, 2012 First operational F-35 squadron honored in historic ceremony

Joint Strike Fighter is welcomed into 3rd MAW’s training operations Confined area landings can- not confine Heavy Haulers Marine Heavy Helicopter Squad- ron 462 ‘Heavy Haulers,’ 3rd Ma- rine Aircraft Wing, practiced con- fined area landings as well as formation flying near El Centro, Calif., Nov. 29. Click to view full story 06

MAG-16 turns 60 Maj. Gen. (sel) Steven W. Busby The battle colors of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 fly for the first time during their re-designation ceremony at Marine Commanding General Corps AirStation Yuma, Nov. 20. Previously based at MCAS Miramar and flying theF-18D, the squadron is the first operational Marine Aircraft 16 celebrated Marine Corps F-35B squadron,ushering in a new era of Marine Aviation. (Photo by Cpl. Aaron Diamant.) its 60th anniversary with a motiva- tional flightline run aboard Marine First Operational F-35 Squadron honored Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., in historic ceremony Story by Capt. Staci Reidinger MARINE CORPS AIR STATION YUMA, Ariz - On Nov. 20, 2012, 3rd squadron will be home to approximately 300 Marines and is expected to Marine Aircraft Wing welcomed its first F-35B squadron during an official receive additional F-35s throughout the next 8 to 12 months, with a total Click to view full story ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., home of Marine Air- of 16 aircraft scheduled to arrive by late 2013. craft Group 13. During the ceremony Marine All Weather Fighter Attack As the Corps’ top leader and a Marine aviator, Amos provided words 10 Squadron 121, formerly an F/A-18 Hornet squadron, re-designated as the of encouragement and optimism about the forward progression of the worlds first operational F-35 squadron. F-35B program with its first operational basing at MCAS Yuma. Celebrating 100 years of Marine Aviation, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing “For the first time in aviation history, the most lethal fighter charac- welcomed its first F-35B squadron during an official ceremony at Marine teristics, supersonic speed, radar-evading stealth, extreme agility, short Miramar stays safety Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Nov. 20 at 1 p.m. takeoff/vertical landing capability, and an impressive array of 21st Cen- During the ceremony Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron smart 121, formerly an F/A-18 Hornet squadron, re-designated as the Corps’ Story continued on page 2 Marines new to the air station first operational F-35 squadron, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121. The squadron also received its second aircraft at the end of the ceremony, BF- First operational must take extensive classes to 20, and its third F-35B, BF-21, later the same day. The arrival of the F-35B Lightening II, also known as the Joint Strike F-35 squadron honored in ensure all safety standards are Fighter, to Yuma signifies the Marine Corps’ forward progress in transi- met daily. Col. John P. Farnam tioning the F-35 from a testing and training aircraft to a fully operational historic ceremony Commanding Officer tactical aviation capability. MCAS Miramar Hundreds of senior military, civic and industry leaders attended the Video created by Cpl. Isaac Lamberth ceremony to mark the next generation of tactical aviation dominance in Follow us on the Marine Corps to include Arizona Senator John McCain, Arizona Gov- Click to view full story ernor Jan Brewer, the Under Secretary of the Navy Honorable Mr. Robert Work and the Commandant of the Marine Corps General James Amos. 22 “Today marks the beginning of Joint Strike Fighters flying over the skies of Arizona for perhaps the next 50 years,” stated McCain during the ceremony. “That’s another 50 years for the city of Yuma and the state of The Flight Jacket is published every other Monday. Arizona to do their part to help ensure this great nation remains strong This is an authorized publication for the military ON THE COVER: services, contents of the Flight Jacket are not necessar- and secure.” An F-35B Lightning II, also known as the Joint Strike Fighter, refuels ily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. gov- LtCol. Jeffrey Scott, native of San Jose, Calif. and formerly an AV-8B ernment, the Department of Defense, Department of the above Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Nov. 20. This F-35B is the second aircraft to Navy or U.S. Marine Corps. It is for informational pur- Harrier pilot, is the new commanding officer of VMFA-121 and is joined poses only and in no way should be considered directive by Sgt. Maj. Carlos Williams, native of Beaufort, S.C., as the squadron’s join the newly-designated Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121. The aircraft later landed in nature. The editorial content is edited, prepared and provid- first sergeant major. Both Marines were hand selected to lead the Marine at MCAS Yuma during a re-designation ceremony for the squadron. ed by the Public Affairs Office. Comments or questions Corps’ first operational F-35 squadron towards revolutionizing expedi- Click to watch video should be directed to 858-577-6000. tionary Marine air-ground combat power in all threat environments. The RETURN TO TOP Flight Jacket 0 1 First Operational F-35 Squadron honored in historic ceremony Continued from page 1 tury weapons have been combined in a single platform… the F-35B Light- ning II you see behind me,” stated Amos. “VMFA-121 is at the forefront of one of the most significant transition periods in the 100-year history of Marine aviation, as we replace nearly every aircraft in the Corps between 2005 and 2025. Certainly, it is the most significant transition in quite some time, maybe since the introduction of the helicopter to our forces in the post World War II 1940s,” Amos added. An F-35B Lightning II, also known as the Joint Strike Gen. James Amos, left, Commandant of the Marine Third Marine Aircraft Wing welcomed its first F-35 Differently from previous fixed wing capabilities across the Department Fighter, refuelsabove Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, squadron during a re-designation ceremony at Ma- of Defense, the integration of U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps Corps, speaks with Arizona Senator John McCain and coalition F-35 Joint Strike Fighters will provide the dominant, multi- Ariz., Nov. 20. This F-35B is the second aircraft to join and Arizona Governor Janice Brewer at a recep- rine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., for Marine Fight- role, fifth generation capabilities needed across the full spectrum of combat the newly-designated Marine Fighter Attack Squad- tion prior to the re-designation ceremony for Marine er Attack Squadron 121 on Nov. 20. The ceremony operations to deter potential adversaries and enable future aviation power ron 121. The aircraft later landed at MCAS Yuma FighterAttack Squadron 121 at Marine Corps Air transitioned the squadron from an F/A-18 Hornet projection. Specific to the Marine Corps, consolidating three aircraft into during a re-designation ceremony for the squadron. Station Yuma, Ariz., Nov. 20. (Photo by Cpl. Aaron squadron to VMFA-121, the Marine Corps first op- one is central to maintaining tactical aviation affordability and serving as good stewards of taxpayer dollars. (Photo by Lance Cpl. Christopher Johns.) Diamant.) erational F-35 squadron. (Photo by Lance Cpl. Uriel VMFA-121 will now join alongside four AV- Avendano.) 8B Harrier Squadrons, the first of which is scheduled to decommission by the end of 2013. MAG-13 Commanding Officer Michael Gough witnessed today the re-shaping of the Corps’ fixed wing capabilities. “This is a tremendous step for Marine Aircraft Group 13 -- a huge leap actually,” stated Gough. “This amazing new aircraft, coupled with the -ex ceptional Marines and Sailors of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, will showcase Marine aviation’s innovative spirit and dedication to unparalleled combat excellence. We are all very proud to be part of such a momentous beginning and look forward to the exciting road ahead.” From MCAS Yuma’s groundbreaking ceremony in mid-2011, marking the air stations preparation for the arrival of its first F-35, to today’s event, MCAS Yuma’s Station Commanding Officer Col. Robert Kuckuk is proud of the shared commitment to excellence witnessed to make today a reality. “We here on the air station, and throughout Third Marine Aircraft Wing and Marine Corps Installations West, are so fortunate to have the support of the people of Yuma, our elected officials, and the workforce that is making this program a reality,” stated Kuckuk. “We could not have accomplished what we have done to date without their support and assistance, not to mention the very hard work that they have provided since the very idea of bringing this airplane to Yuma was first mentioned. This day is as much about the relationship the Marines have with the city and county as it is about a milestone in Marine Aviation.” As new F-35s flow in to Yuma, Ariz., over the next several years, MCAS Yuma will continue to refine its infrastructure to support additional F-35 squadrons, prepare its ranges and facilities for a full range of combat train- ing operations and will lead the Marine Corps in evaluating the employ- ment and advancement of the F-35B. “The next step is to continue to build on the progress we saw this after- noon. Facilities need to continue to be built to include the auxiliary landing field on Barry M. Goldwater Range-West so the pilots can train for ship- board operations and the communication links need to be completed and tested,” stated Kuckuk. “All of this will be in support of the Marine Aircraft Group 13 pilots that will train to take this airplane to war.” VMFA-121 is now setting the pace for the F-35 program based on a common platform. The U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps can inte- grate best practices from VMFA-121 in preparation for the future opera- tional basing of the F-35A and F-35C. “Marines, the eyes of the world are upon you. I know that everyone one of you are up to the challenge of making this aircraft successful, relevant Yuma’s second F-35B, BF-20, arrives at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma’s flightline fol- and operational,” stated Amos. “We will take things slow. We will do things lowing the re-designation ceremony for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Nov. 20. the right way and in the end, you will deliver to our nation its very first 5th The Green Knights, formerly an F/A-18 Hornet squadron, is the Marine Corps’ first generation, operational combat squadron. It will exist for one purpose only: to defend America and its interests.” operational F-35 squadron. The F-35 marks the next generation of tactical aviation dominance in the Marine Corps. (Photo by Cpl. Aaron Diamant.) 0 2 Flight Jacket RETURN TO TOP www.FlightJacket.comFlight Jacket 0 3 Station CO is ‘Educator for a Day’ Story and photos by Pfc. Raquel Barraza , Calif. – In support of American Education Week, Nov. 11 through 15, Kumeyaay Elementary hosted its first Educator for a Day event and invited Col. John P. Farnam, the commanding officer of -Ma rine Corps Air Station Miramar, to take on the role of teacher Nov. 15. Multiple local community leaders were invited to participate, and with the largest sub group of the school being military children, Farnam gladly accepted the invitation. “We have a 20 percent military children student population, and because of that, we’re so excited to have Col. Farnam here,” said Maria Montgomery, the principle of Kumeyaay Elementary. Farnam smiled upon seeing all the students who wanted to share their knowledge with him. The children love talking to him whether it was a student interested in the military or students who wanted to share what they were learning. He always seemed so happy and interested in learning, added Montgom- ery. Many educators could not be happier that Farnam came to event. “We’re so lucky to have him here,” said Laura Dewan, clinician for the operations student success grant and a San Diego native. “I know he’s under great demand but he has such a passion for children.” Farnam greeted every child he saw with a warm hello. “It was great getting to be out in town and being able to work with these people and the kids. It’s nice to see kids so enthusiastic about their education,” said Farnam. “Our nation needs people who are engaged and educated, and that’s what these kids are.” The school intends to make this an annual event, and participants agreed that events like this need to continue. “We get wrapped up and get worried about elections and work, but Lt. Gen. Robert E. Schmidle, Jr., cockpit front, the deputy commandant of aviation for the Marine Corps, prepares for a flight on the truth is these kids are what our future is all about,” said Farnam “I the flight line aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 16. Schmidle flew with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing aviators can’t wait to do this again.” Nov. 16. Above: Col. John P. Farnam, the commanding officer of Ma- rine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., goes on a tour of Deputy commandant of aviation for Kumeyaay Elementary during an Educator for a Day event in San Diego, Nov. 15. Many student volunteers showed the educators around the school and shared history of the school. Marine Corps visits MCAS Miramar Left: Col. John P. Farnam, the commanding officer of Ma- rine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., looks at the work of a student during the Educator for a Day event at Kumeyaay Elementary in San Diego, Nov. 15. Photos by Lance Cpl. Christopher Johns

Lt. Gen. Robert E. Schmidle, Jr., deputy commandant of aviation for the Marine Corps, looks over the controls of a AH-1 Cobra on the Flight line aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 16. Right: Col. John P. Farnam, the commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., looks at patches on a stu- dent’s jacket during the Educator for a Day event at Kumey- aay Elementary in San Diego, Nov. 15. Twenty percent of the school’s population is military children. 0 4 Flight Jacket RETURN TO TOP www.FlightJacket.comFlight Jacket 0 53 Confined area landings cannot confine Heavy Haulers

Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Christopher Johns EL CENTRO, Calif. – The whirring steer our pilots away from them or alert of six rotary blades shook the aircraft as them to another aircrafts presence,” said it trundled down the taxi lane. A second Staff Sgt. Eric Guevara, a quality assur- CH-53E Super Stallion followed at a safe ance representative and crew chief with distance, stopping when the section leader HMH-462 and a Cottage Grove, Ore., did. native. “Not all forward operation bases During takeoff, a sudden weight- have established airfields. I’ve been to less feeling hit the crew, followed by FOBs where their landing area was a the weight of gravity pushing against blocked off two-lane road, and we had the mighty aircraft when it took to the to land there. I’ve also been to places in sky – training for confined area landings where they throw down some gravel with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron behind razor wire a little ways from some 462 ‘Heavy Haulers,’ 3rd Marine Aircraft ply-wood buildings and expect you land Wing, Nov. 29, had commenced. safely there.” “We train for [confined area landings] Once in the landing zone the first every flight,” said Capt. Nick Harvey, a Su- objective area came into sight. The pilots per Stallion pilot with the Heavy Haulers angled their aircraft toward the point and and an Oak Harbor, Wash., native. “Our circled the objective area slowly, as crew job is to take Marines into a specific zone chiefs scanned for danger and safe posi- and land when we have to land, or we’ve tions for their Super Stallion. failed our mission and put ourselves and “We have more than 100 feet of bird others in jeopardy.” to maneuver and land safely without hit- Their destination was a desert-like area ting anything around us,” said Guevara. just outside of El Centro, Calif., where “We help scan for threats and help the conditions are similar to those of Iraq and pilots navigate while they fly. We also . keep watch for check points along the way “Right now, landing conditions in while maintaining the aircraft, so we can green zones are in poppy fields or grass land and lift off safely.” or in open deserts,” said Harvey. “We The Super Stallions came to a hover practice a lot more in the desert, so when with crew chiefs guiding them safely to we kick up dust [like in Afghanistan,] we the ground, throwing huge clouds of dust have that practice ensuring we can land into the air. when we need to every single time.” “We can’t come in for a landing, decide Clouds passed beneath the hull of the we don’t like it, then wave off,” said Har- rotary wing giant, more than 100 feet long vey. “Waving off like that exposes us to and 46,000 pounds, sometimes carrying enemy fire and in turn, the Marines we’re 20,000 pounds in supplies, equipment or transporting. Not landing the first time Marines ready to insert into an objective and having to come back for another try point. gives away the element of surprise, which CH-53E Super Stallions with Marine Heavy Heli- During the flight to the landing zone, may be crucial to the mission.” copter Squadron 462 ‘Heavy Haulers,’ 3rd Marine the small aircraft formation passed close After they circled and landed four Aircraft Wing, practicing formation flying as part to air space above Imperial County Air- times, the small formation made its way of confined area landing training outside El Centro, port, Imperial, Calif., putting crew chiefs back to MCAS Miramar to debrief and and their peers in the back of the aircraft learn more from the training and each Calif., Nov. 29. While maintaining safe distances, on higher alert. other – their training mission accom- pilots must learn to maneuver the aircraft they man “During the flight we watch the skies plished. in most every way possible, allowing for split sec- for other aircraft we may encounter and ond turns to avoid enemy projectiles and aircraft en route to their objective point.

0 6 Flight Jacket RETURN TO TOP www.FlightJacket.comFlight Jacket 0 73 Sgt. Roosevelt Thompson, right, a Phoenix native and Sgt. James Ellis, left, a Rockport, Texas native, both Corporal’s Course in- San Diego Veteran home structors with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., check Christmas light bulbs before hanging them at the Col. Mitchell Paige, holds local event gets helping USMC Building, in the Veteran’s Home of in Chula Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Christopher Johns Vista, Calif., Dec. 5. SAN DIEGO – Marines and sailors with reserve units around the San that will assist them into becoming responsible, productive and Diego area have one yearly Christmas mission—their mission, to collect patriotic citizens, provided the foundation’s website. hand from toys for low-income families and children throughout the area. The people donating aren’t the only ones receiving a sense of joy The USS Midway hosted a Toys for Tots event with reserve units from giving of themselves, Marine volunteers also feel a sense joy to and local media in an effort to help the Marine Corps gather more than lend a helping hand. Miramar 200,000 toys for children of low-income families, Dec. 1. “People have been donating toys of all sizes and cash to ensure “[People] have been coming down to our event to donate toys and the kids have a great Christmas this year,” said Lance Cpl. Jesus Trajo, receive tickets to go aboard the USS Midway in return, as a way of giving a volunteer from Camp Pendleton and an Oxnard, Calif., native. something back,” said Staff Sgt. Romualdo Colon-Adorno, the Toys for “Everyone’s having fun. This is the first time I’ve ever [volunteered Marines Tots event coordinator for San Diego South and a Stephentown, N.Y., na- for Toys for Tots] and it’s amazing. I was extremely fortunate there tive. “We’re trying to get as many toys as humanly possible.” was a spot left to volunteer and I’m so happy to be here. I hope the Story and photos by More than 60 years ago, Diane Hendricks, the wife of Col. William L. kids are as ecstatic to get these toys as I was to help collect them.” Hendricks of the Marine Corps Reserves in Los Angeles, started mak- Lance Cpl. Christopher Johns ing dolls for her husband to take to an agency that would give them to children. Unfortunately, no such organization existed, so the Hendricks’ CHULA VISTA, Calif. – A Christmas tree that brought joy to While the Marines worked, veterans conversed with the younger decided to start one of their own – the Toys for Tots Foundation. Marines while on deployment made its way to veterans at the Veteran’s service members, leaving an impression on the staff who watched over “Every year we assist some of the nonprofit organizations when they Home of California in Chula Vista, Calif., by way of four Marines from them. go to the schools and hold events to give the toys to the children,” said Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 5. “Our veterans here love it when active duty service members come Colon-Adorno. “We give the toys to the kids, the parents come over and “We had a shop of 28 Marines while we were deployed to Afghani- to visit them,” said Hulsizer. “It makes them feel remembered. Many shake our hands and the kids look so surprised they just don’t know what stan,” said Gunnery Sgt. Charles Rowe, the director for Corporal’s of these veterans don’t have family here, so when [the Marines] came, to do with themselves.” Course and a Bloomingdale, Ill., native. “Our wives all got together it touched them and us too. When Gunnery Sgt. Rowe brought the People donating are responsible for providing at least some small form and sent us a Christmas tree and that was our Christmas gift last year. Christmas tree here, it brought tears to a lot of people’s eyes. The joy that of holiday happiness to the children of those less fortunate than them- As significant as that was to us, I thought it would be nice to have that tree brought to the Marines in Afghanistan could have been shared with selves. continue on, so I brought it here to the veteran’s home.” anyone, but he chose us and our veterans to share it with.” “I feel very good having donated a toy for the kids,” said Laura Stin- Along with the tree, Rowe and his instructors also volunteered to Leaving such a lasting impression on the people of veteran’s home son, a contributor and an Ann Arbor, Mich., native. “I would imagine the hang other holiday decorations for the veteran’s Christmas party, which has not just touched the hearts and minds of the veterans and employ- children will enjoy the toys very much and the Marines being down here Lance Cpl. Jesus Trajo, a military police officer with Camp was only one week away. ees, but the volunteers as well. to help is just great.” Pendleton and Oxnard, Calif., native, gives a child a high “[These Marines] were our greatest help decorating for the Christ- “It’s humbling,” said Rowe. “After being [in the Marine Corps] The mission behind the Toys for Tots Foundation is to deliver, through five during a Toys for Tots drive at the USS Midway in San mas party,” said Christine Hulsizer, the executive secretary with the vet- for more than 18 years, I think of the changes I’ve seen, and now, the a new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters Diego, Dec. 1. eran’s home and a Chula Vista, Calif., native. “With any of our projects, changes that these veterans must see in us; what they must have seen whether it’s here at the veteran’s home or at the , and done from when they were our age and serving. Just knowing what I’ll ask for one Marine and about 20 will answer. Marines just do it right. they must have gone through hits home for me and makes me appreci- They were willing to stay as long as we needed and needed little direc- ate the generation that came before me. I’m glad just to get to give back tion. We showed them the boxes of decorations, and they went straight a little bit.” to work.”

A crowd gathers to donate toys at a Toys for Sgt. Jason Cepeda, a Corporal’s Course instructor with Head- Gunnery Sgt. Charles Rowe, the director for Corporal’s Course Tots drive at the USS Midway in San Diego, quarters and Headquarters Squadron at Marine Corps Air with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron at Marine Dec. 1. Marine Corps Reserve Units hold Station Miramar, Calif., and a Saipan native, unravels Christ- Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., and a Bloomingdale, Ill., events all over the country to collect toys for mas lights while volunteering at the Col. Mitchell Paige, USMC native, speaks to Alan Cole, a retired gunnery sergeant, while children of low income families throughout Building, in the Veteran’s Home of California in Chula Vista, volunteering at the Col. Mitchell Paige, USMC Building, in the America. Calif., Dec. 5. Veteran’s Home of California in Chula Vista, Calif., Dec. 5. 0 8 Flight Jacket RETURN TO TOP www.FlightJacket.comFlight Jacket 0 93 MWCS-38 brings back Marine Aircraft Group 16 turns 60 tradition of Birthday Run Story and photos by Pfc. Raquel Barraza In the spirit of Marine Aircraft Group 16’s 60th an- MAG,” said Gramuglia. niversary, MAG-16 Marines ran across the flight line Many Marines proudly lead in cadence for a motivational run aboard Marine Corps Air Station and motivated with every step. Miramar, Calif., Nov. 15. “As soon as I heard we were doing a run I Since its birthday on March 2, the group has spent this year knew I was going to go out there and sing cadence,” celebrating with different events. said Staff Sgt. LeeAnn Nelson, the current operations “We did a fly over a few months ago, and on the birthday we chief with MAG-16 and a Pinewood, S.C., native. did our own cake-cutting ceremony,” said Col. Patrick Gramuglia, Dedicated Marines showed just how proud MAG-16 the commanding officer of MAG-16 and a Cleveland native. Marines are to be a part of this group. The motivational run is the last event scheduled for the year as part “I’m thrilled to be a part of MAG-16 because the espirit of the celebration. de corps is so strong. I think every Marine embodies it from the MAG-16 is comprised of three CH-53E Super Stallion squadrons, four most junior private first class to the colonel,” said Nelson. MV-22B Osprey squadrons and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16, which MAG-16 plans on working hard as it has done for the past 60 all ran in the motivational run. years and hopefully will celebrate its 120th anniversary in the next “There were at least 600 Marines out there for the run supporting the 60 years.

Right: A Marine with Marine Heavy Helicop- ter Squadron 465 runs with the HMH-465 gui- Story and photos by Pfc. Raquel Barraza The Marine Corps has a.m. and lasted a total of 31 don during the Marine many different traditions, hours and 20 minutes. whether it is service wide “It’s great to see the level Aircraft Group 16 mo- like the birthday cake- of dedication in the Marines tivational run aboard cutting ceremony or a unit who ran this,” said Isaacson. Marine Corps Air Sta- based birthday run like the Many Marines with the tion Miramar, Calif., Marines with Marine Wing squadron who ran stayed to Nov. 16. For motivation Communication Squadron support other runners. 38 aboard Marine Corps “I’m out here for the during the run, Marines Air Station Miramar, Calif., motivation,” said Lance Cpl. with the guidon ran Nov. 9. William Gerland, a tropo- around their platoons. In the halls of the squad- spheric scatter radio multi- ron, a trophy case held channel equipment operator batons from previous years with MWCS-38 and an Above: Marine with Marine when the squadron would Easton, Md., native. Wing Communication Squad- do birthday runs running a In the end, the goal of mile for every year the Ma- the run was not only to ron 38 run the last mile and rine Corps existed. Around bring back a tradition, but half during a Birthday Run 2003, the tradition stopped to bring the squadron to- aboard Marine Corps Air Sta- for operational reasons. gether for a common cause. tion Miramar, Calif., Nov. 10. Sgt. Maj. Shawn Isaac- “We’re trying to get these son, the sergeant major of Marines to realize they’re all During the last mile and half, MWCS-38 and a Salt Lake a part of a bigger picture,” the commanding officer car- City, Utah, native, decided it said Isaacson. “We want ried the baton to the finish line. might be time to bring that them to accomplish some- Right: Lieutenant Colonel Ed- tradition back. thing as a squadron.” ward J. Debish, the command- “With the draw down in By the last mile and a Iraq and less deployments half, some Marines even ing officer of Marine Wing it seemed like a good time came back to run with the Marines with Marine Aircraft Group 16 run in formation during Above: A Marine with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron Communications Squadron to start it up again,” said sergeant major and com- the MAG-16 motivational run aboard Marine Corps Air Station 465 runs with the HMH-465 guidon during the Marine 38, holds a baton while cross- Isaacson. manding officer of MWCS- More than 150 Ma- 38.When the commanding Miramar, Calif., Nov. 16. The run is one of the events the group did Aircraft Group 16 motivational run aboard Marine Corps ing the finish line during a Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 16. For motivation dur- Birthday Run aboard Marine rines with the squadron officer crossed the finish throughout the year to celebrate their 60th anniversary. alternated running the 237 line, the time was 8:20 a.m. ing the run, Marines with the guidon ran around their pla- Corps Air Station Miramar, miles that began Nov. 9 at 1 Nov. 10. toons. Calif., Nov. 10. 1 0 Flight Jacket RETURN TO TOP www.FlightJacket.comFlight Jacket 1015 Left: Eric Runningpath, the lead dancer with the Intertribal Danc- ers out of San Diego, performs a dance during the afternoon meal at Gonzales Hall aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 16. The mess hall chose a Native American-themed menu in honor of Native American Heritage Month and also invited Eric and his fellow dancer to share their culture with the Marines on the air station. Above: Lance Cpl. Chassidy Lee, a food service specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron and a West Point, Miss., native, stirs pasta in the kitchen at Gonzales Hall aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 16. Above: Lance Cpl. William Taylor, a food service specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron and a Sacramento, Calif., native, stirs vegetables in the kitch- en at Gonzales Hall aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 16. Left: Gonzales Hall takes bite out Lance Cpl. Julien Bumatay, a food service specialist with Headquarters and Head- quarters Squadron and a Kualapu’u, , native, clears away a dirty pan in the kitchen at Gonzales Hall aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 16. Food service Marines work diligently do stay on top of their game and provide the best of competition service they can to those they serve. Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Christopher Johns The best Marine Corps mess halls throughout the world are compet- tor of food services and subsistence program with Headquarters Marine Gonzales Hall takes bite out of ing for the coveted Maj. Gen. W.P.T. Hill Award for Food Service Excel- Corps and a Marion, Ohio, native. “At this point in the game, it’s the lence competition to recognize the best mess hall in the Marine Corps. smallest details we are looking for, because everyone is at the top of their competition (Video) Gonzales Hall, winner of the Best of the West mess hall competition, g a m e .” welcomed judges for the award into its facility for the second time in the The team at Gonzales Hall works hard all year to keep Marines com- Video created by Flight Jacket Staff past two years, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 16. ing back to eat, competition or no competition. Judges and Marines alike had the opportunity to enjoy a Native “It’s very busy [back in the kitchen,]” said Barrera. “You learn a lot. American Heritage Month-themed meal, as dancers with the Intertribal You have to follow the menu and your hard cards exactly. Sometimes <---- Click to watch Dancers performed to the drums and songs of Falling Rock, a group of [we] could be put onto two main items and you really have to know what Native American musicians and singers. you’re doing. We put in a lot of hours to prepare the food for the Marines Themed meals, however, are not the only meals offered at the mess to come here and enjoy.” hall. After the competition has concluded the results will be posted early “We also offer a [variety] of different foods and services to the January of next year, with judges looking for something special about the Marines here, like a Mongolian bar and sizzling salad bar among other winner. foods, explained Pfc. Liz Barrera, a food service specialist with Head- “What my motto is as a director is to be the Marines first service,” said MCAS Miramar celebrates Native quarters and Headquarters Squadron and an Oklahoma City, native. Kohler. “Making sure that Marines get the best food that they can … One “We’ve brought a lot of new things to the chow hall and we’ve improved of the things I like about this facility is the building itself and the cooks. American Heritage (Video) from when I first got here.” The cooks themselves are very motivated, they have a positive attitude. After having won a preliminary competition in their regions, win- You can tell how they interact amongst themselves but more importantly Video created by Cpl. Kevin Crist ning mess halls must work even harder to prepare for the next step to be how they interact with their civilian counterparts. They both have the the Corps’ best. Judges look at food preparation, sanitation, paper work, same mindset that the most important person in the building is the per- training for the Marines and much more. son coming through the serving line.” Click to watch ----> “This is the Super Bowl for us,” said Maj. Richard Kohler, the direc- 1 2 Flight Jacket RETURN TO TOP www.FlightJacket.comFlight Jacket 1035 The fewer, prouder: Female pilots fly alongside men

Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Melissa Eschenbrenner When an economics major in her freshman year stepped into class She is very personable and is easy to ask questions because she is and saw a video of a plane hitting the World Trade Center the feeling of knowledgeable enough to easily explain whatever is needed, added Capt. helplessness overwhelmed her. She knew then she had to do something John Dextor, a pilot and operations officer with HMM-462, 3rd MAW to make a difference. and a Norfolk, Va., native. She decided when hearing about the possibilities of being a pilot in As a pilot with qualifications to instruct others in training and weap- the Marine Corps, that she would use that to aid her country in a time of ons and tactics, she thoroughly passes her knowledge to anyone who can need. This person, now a Marine pilot with Marine Medium Helicopter benefit from it, explained Dextor. Cpl. Teodoro Banda, a military working dog handler with the Cpl David Mayes, the chief trainer for the military working Squadron 462, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, is Capt. Charlene Wyman. “She is very attention-to-detail oriented,” said Dextor. “Working as Provost Marshal’s Office and a San Mateo, Texas, native, and dog section with PMO and a Johnstown, Pa., native and Xx- After seven years in the Marine Corps, spending her entire career as a operations officers together, she coordinates about 40 pilots and matches Lutyo, his military working dog, look for scented aids during ex- erxes, his military working dog, conduct drug detection train- CH-53E Super Stallion pilot, she doesn’t look at her job as work, she sees what they need with classes, students and instructors to get the schedule plosive and drug detection training exercise at the Recreational it as fun. finished.” ing at the Provost Marshal’s Office aboard Marine Corps Air “As a woman, I wanted to be in direct support of the troops on the Wyman is proud to be in a squadron that grows and works as a team. Vehicle Parking Lot east of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Station Miramar, Calif., Dec 4. ground,” said Wyman. “I wanted to be as close to the action as possible.” She benefits from others as well as passes her knowledge to colleagues. Calif., Dec. 5. On her first deployment where she spent three months in Iraq and Without them, she would not have gotten the opportunity to fly with three months in Afghanistan, she was one of four female pilots, which Headquarters Marine Corps One in the future. was an anomaly, she explained. “She is going to be a pilot with HMX.” said Dextor. “That is a testa- Upon returning, there was only one other female pilot in her squad- ment to her skill level and potential for the future,” said Dextor. “It is very Military working dogs sink their teeth ron. competitive and a very selective process.” “In older generations it may have been a bigger deal,” said Wyman. As a pilot with many opportunities, Wyman would not change it. “But, nowadays women are seen in many different jobs that they wouldn’t “I didn’t plan on staying in for this long.” said Wyman. “However, I in explosive, drug detection training have been in before and it doesn’t faze anyone.” didn’t know it was going to be this much fun. I know I’ll be in HMX-1 for The friendships made in the Marine Corps are tighter than those you four years so if I still love it, I will keep doing this. I don’t honestly know Story and photos by Pfc. Raquel Barraza could make in a civilian job. As a pilot, the opportunities to work closely what I’d be doing if I wasn’t here.” Since 1942, Marines have worked with military working dogs and to this day with officers and enlisted closely help to pass knowledge and make the use their capabilities to keep Marine Corps installations safe. team as a whole stronger, explained Wyman. Although the dogs go through their basic training in Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, military working dogs handlers aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., ensure the dogs stay proficient with more extensive training Capt. Charlene Wyman, a throughout the year. pilot with Marien Medium The dogs undergo drug and explosive detection two times a month, but the handlers here try to run the dogs through it at least four times a month, ex- Helicopter Squadron 462, 3rd plained Cpl. Eric Vega, military working dog handler with the Provost Marshal’s Marine Aircraft Wing, stands Office and a Corona, Calif., native. with a CH-53E Super Stallion The dogs either train to find the scent of explosives or drugs, and the animals during a training exercise in El trained for drugs can differentiate the smells of several different drugs. Centro, Calif., Nov. 29. “The dogs are trained to sniff out cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, ec- stasy and marijuana,” said Vega. During the exercises, handlers train dogs to smell for scent aids planted in different places throughout the training site. “We try putting the aids in high or difficult places, not where it might typi- cally be, so the dog is better prepared,” said Cpl. David Mayes, the chief trainer for the military working dog section with PMO and Johnstown, Pa., native. The handlers use minimal aids during training to help the dogs achieve peak performance. Mayes explained that the dogs can easily find large amounts of explosives because they are trained to detect very small amounts of the substances. All the dogs train based on an award system and that’s how they get the enjoyment out of the work. “We associate praise with good behavior,” said Mayes. “People work for money, the dogs work for our love and affection and their toys. That makes it more like a game to the dogs.” Even though it may seem like all work, the handlers enjoy time with their Cpl David Mayes, the chief trainer for the military work- dogs. ing dog section with PMO and a Johnstown, Pa., native, “The best part about the job is the bond that we build with our dogs,” said trains Xxerxes, his military working dog, to be obedient Mayes. to his owner at the Provost Marshal’s Officer aboard Ma- With the training that PMO conducts, these animals will be able to stay rine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 4. proficient to accomplish their mission. 1 4 Flight Jacket RETURN TO TOP www.FlightJacket.comFlight Jacket 1053 Inspecting to be best: a technicians’ duty Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Rebecca Eller Being passionate about a job makes working that Clement is not only competitive in his job, but much easier. For Sgt. Anthony Clement, collateral also in the Marine Corps. Clement had previously duty quality assurance representative for the avion- won the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and 1st Marine ics shop with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Expeditionary Force noncommissioned officer of Squadron 352, and a San Diego native, his job is the quarter board, which led to his meritorious Above: Sgt. Anthony Clement, left, a collateral duty worth working. promotion to sergeant by Brig. Gen. Steven Bugsby, quality assurance representative for the avionics shop Clement inspects the work performed on a KC- commanding general of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 130J and ensures his fellow Marines perform repairs Nov. 5. and a San Diego, native, and Cpl. Tony Restivo, front, in accordance with the safety manuals and publica- To be competitive for a board, Marines must be tions. well rounded in every aspect. an avionics electronic technician with VMGR-352, “He’s a sergeant now, but when he was a corporal “This Marine is physically fit, mentally sharp and check for the correct voltage to an avionics component he was a collateral duty quality inspector, normally highly disciplined,” said Noschang. on a KC-130J aboard Marine Corps Air Station Mira- staff NCO’s and senior sergeants hold that billet,” On top of having a first class physical fitness mar, Calif., Nov. 19. said Gunnery Sgt. Chad M. Noschang, the avionics test and , a second award expert shop staff noncommissioned officer in charge with rifleman, a black belt Marine Corps Martial Arts VMGR-352. “He’s excelling up the ladder a little Program and being an instructor in the program, quicker than his peers.” Clement volunteers his time to the community Sgt. Anthony Clement, a collat- Clement says his motivation to want to improve by helping with Big Marine, Little Marine and eral duty quality assurance rep- comes from the Marines in his shop. the San Diego Armed Services YMCA, explained resentative for the avionics shop “They come in every day, and always work as Noschang. with Marine Aerial Refueler hard as possible to fix these aircraft so that they can “I believe that the mentorship program is crucial complete missions,” said Clement. because it’s an opportunity for my Marines to see Transport Squadron 352 and a Though Clement says it is the Marines in his me in a different light,” said Clement. “Work can be San Diego native, stands on a shop who motivate him, he is the one motivating hectic, stressful and cause tunnel vision but being KC-130J aboard Marine Corps them, explained Noschang. able take care of your Marines in all aspects, on and Air Station Miramar, Calif., “He leads by example, and he’s constantly men- off duty, strengthens our effort toward mission -ac Nov. 19. toring, trying to get all the Marines up to his level,” complishment.” said Noschang.

Sgt. Anthony Clement, a collateral duty quality assurance representa- tive for the avionics shop with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 and a San Diego native, holds a PGM-50, which tests for oxygen and toxins in the fuel of a KC-130J aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 19.

Sgt. Anthony Clement, a collateral duty quality assurance representative for the avionics shop with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 and a San Diego native, ensures the switches are in the correct position before applying power to a KC- 130J aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 19. 1 6 Flight Jacket RETURN TO TOP www.FlightJacket.comFlight Jacket 1073 Celebrate the Season San Diego Style Story and photos by Cpl. Lisa Tourtelot SAN DIEGO – December is here – though you may not know it with California’s balmy 80-degree weather. 3rd MAW Whether you’re new to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., or a Southern California local, there are plenty of holiday activities throughout the month to entertain the whole family on any budget. Balboa Park’s December Nights is one of the city’s most popular – and free – events. Dec. 7 and 8 San Diegans can stroll through the brightly-lit park, enjoying carolers, musicians, Band dancers and even a Christmas Carol puppet show. Participating Balboa Park museums are also opening their doors free of charge to event participants, while food vendors are offering a taste of international cuisine. Holiday-themed parades throughout the county include the annual Port of San Diego Parade of Lights Dec. 9 and 16, the Mission Bay Christmas Boat Parade of Lights Dec. 8, plays first Above: The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band plays an assort- the Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade Dec. 9 and the Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights also Dec. 8. ment of holiday fare during their first Holiday Concert aboard The Hotel del Coronado opened an oceanfront outdoor ice skating rink for the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif, Dec. 8. In addition winter season, and the Viejas Outlet Center offers San Diego’s largest outdoor ice to holiday favorites, the band featured a medley of tunes from skating rink. Downtown, ice-seekers can skate at the outdoor Horton Square rink. holiday “The Hobbit” and a visit from Santa. Below: Brig. Gen. Steven Proceeds from the Horton Square rink are supporting the Rady Children’s Hospital. W. Busby, commanding general of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, For Christmas lights like no other, starting on Dec. 11 Christmas Circle between reads “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” to a group of chil- First and Second Avenues in Chula Vista will host more than 55 festive homes, while Fairway Village in Carmel Mountain Ranch will light more than 85 homes beginning dren, while guitarist Lance Cpl. Moses Lin accompanies with Dec. 1 and offers other holiday favorites like Santa, carolers, musicians and food. concert holiday favorites at the Holiday Concert aboard Marine Corps Don’t want to stop for lights? Del Mar Fairgrounds opened a 1.5-mile track of Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 8. The 3rd MAW band in- drive-thru holiday lights Nov. 22. The Holiday of Lights display has more than 400 Photos by Lance Cpl. Michelle Piehl tends to continue the tradition of the holiday concert aboard scenes, including Toyland, Candy Cane Lane and Elves at Play. the air station annually. Beginning Dec. 15, the San Diego Zoo will become a nightly winter spectacle, “Jungle Bells.” The zoo will offer a nightly tree lighting ceremony, bell ringers and holiday-themed animal shows and presentations. The San Diego Zoo is of course free to active-duty military. Dec. 15 and 16, Old Town Holiday in the Park and Las Posadas will treat guests to period-style holiday decorations, caroling and holiday shopping. On the 16th, the Las Posadas re-enactment of the biblical story of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem will begin in the Old Town park and end with a children’s piñata party. If you’re looking for a real white Christmas, Mount Laguna is only a one hour drive from San Diego and, weather conditions permitting, offers sled- ding, snowmen and more. Whether you’re looking for a white Christmas or a holiday with Southern California flare, San Diego is sure to keep winter revelers busy this season.

Skaters enjoy an ice rink on the beach at the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego Nov. 28. Ice skating on the beach is just one of many local holiday activi- ties with a Southern California twist. 1 8 Flight Jacket RETURN TO TOP www.FlightJacket.comFlight Jacket 1093 A family pets a miniature horse during the Chil- dren’s Christmas Carnival at the Bob Hope Theater aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Ca- Miramar lif., Dec. 1. Hundreds of families attended the free Miramar holds tree lighting event to start the holiday season. children’s to start holiday season carnival kicks off holiday season Photos by Lance Cpl. Rebecca Eller

Col. John P. Farnam, commanding officer of Volunteers hand out free cookies during a Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Tree Lighting Ceremony in front of the Ma- and Santa flip the switch to light a tree dur- rine Corps Exchange aboard Marine Corps ing a Tree Lighting Ceremony in front of the Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 17. During Marine Corps Exchange aboard MCAS Mi- the tree lighting, spectators enjoyed free snacks ramar, Nov. 17. Farnam and Santa helped and a prize give-away. Kids participate in bean-bag tossing A child holds a scorpion during the light the tree to kick off the holiday season. games during the Children’s Christ- Children’s Christmas Carnival at the mas Carnival at the Bob Hope Theat- Bob Hope Theater aboard Marine er aboard Marine Corps Air Station Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Miramar, Calif., Dec. 1. Dec. 1.

Children race through a blow up obstacle course during the Children’s Christmas Car- nival at the Bob Hope Theater aboard Ma- rine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 1.

2 0 Flight Jacket RETURN TO TOP www.FlightJacket.comFlight Jacket 2013 A sign warns personnel about a trip hazard in a hangar aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 28. Regulations and standards taught to su- Falcons, Beast pervisors by Station Safety instructors have brought to light many hazards that could cause injury to workers aboard the air station. Signs like this prevent possible workplace accidents. battle for Miramar stays Camp Pendleton safety smart Football Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Christopher Johns League When a Marine checks into a new duty station, they can often feel McNamara, a supervisory safety specialist with Station Safety and a San overwhelmed by the amount of work they have to do to become a part Diego native. “We tailor each class for those who come to take part. The of their unit. advice we give someone from a construction field and that of a person This could mean safety is the least of their worries, endangering who works at a desk could be completely different, but safety is what we Championship themselves and those around them. don’t change. We teach them how to properly report situations involv- At Station Safety, focus is always on keeping Marines, sailors, civil- ing unsafe conditions and how to fill out the appropriate forms for ians and even contractors mission-capable by minimizing risk and making changes when they fix these conditions.” promoting safety throughout Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Responsibility for safety does not just end with the safety supervisor, Story and photos by Pfc. Raquel Barraza every day. but with those designated as the safety representative from the offices MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – “I strive to be According to Marine Corps Order 5100.29A, Marines stepping into they oversee. perfect,” yelled Staff Sgt. Van Black, a captain for the Marine Corps Air a supervisory role must attend courses offered by those who work at “One person isn’t going to be able to keep everyone in their section Station Miramar Falcons. “I strive to be perfect,” yelled the team in re- offices like MCAS Miramarís Station Safety. safe when some sections split into different offices scattered throughout sponse. Back and forth the captain yells the words of the Falcon chant and “Supervisor safety training is required for all supervisors within 90 the air station,” said Master Sgt. James Southall, safety chief with Station the team returns with intensity and volume all in preparation to take on days of taking charge of their billet,” said Lt. Col. James Traver, director Safety and a Richmond, Va., native. “So what the supervisors do is cre- the enemy knowing this could be their last chance. Before kickoff, the final of Station Safety for MCAS Miramar and a Poughkeepsie, N.Y., native. ate a safety chain of command, the links of this chain are the different words were yelled by the captain, “Falcons on three. Falcons on me. One. “We’re always trying to accomplish the mission, but safety has to come reps from each office who have appointed by their section heads and Two. Three. Falcons.” Cpl. Wiley Flowers, a defensive back with the Marine Corps first. Our instructors give classes here and in the work environment to report back to the safety supervisor to train. We aren’t here to manage The Marine Corps Air Station Falcons played the 1st Marine Logistics Air Station Miramar Falcons, takes down a player with the advise the supervisors on safety.” everyone; we are here as a hub where everyone can come to gather the Group Beast for the title of Camp Pendleton Football League Champions 1st Marine Logistics Group Beast during a Camp Pendle- The courses offered last 10 hours to a week long, involving general knowledge we have to take and use how best they see fit.” aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 20. Unfortunate- safety precautions, specific safety concerns and practical applications of For more information on safety and the latest safety recommenda- ton Football League Championship playoff game against ly, they lost with a final score of 14-6. safety concerns. These classes are offered quarterly and follow Occupa- tions, safety supervisors and appointed safety representatives can attend the 1st MLG Beast at the Paige Field House Football Field “We played hard, they just played a little harder,” said Black, a Dallas tional Safety and Health Administration guidelines. monthly Safety Committee meetings every third Thursday of the month native. aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. “We teach what you’re responsible for as a supervisor when it comes at 10 a.m. The Falcons have nothing to frown about with all the work they have 20. to safety and the welfare of those under their employ,” said Patrick done and how far they went this season. “It was a pretty good season. We lost in the beginning but we came back and didn’t lose another game until tonight,” said Black. For some Marines like Black this is their last season with the Falcons, but they have no doubt that next year the Falcons will strive to go further. If Miramar has a team and MLG has a team, it will probably be those two teams in the playoffs again next year, added Black. Falcon players didn’t walk away empty-handed though; they now hold the title of the second best team in the Camp Pendleton Football League out of 10 teams. Brig. Gen. Vincent A. Coglianese, the commanding gen- eral of MCB Camp Pendleton presented a trophy to the MCAS Miramar Falcons to show for it. “There’s going to be high and lows, but I appreciate all the dedication,” said Master Sgt. Ross Blain, head coach for the MCAS Miramar Falcons, in a huddle with team after the game. Falcon players walked away with their heads held high knowing their work is not unappreciated. “You are a champion. Don’t let the trophy or the placing take away Players with the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Fal- from what you put in with all your effort,” said Blain to the team. “You cons hold their trophy after a Camp Pendleton Football didn’t have to do this and use your time for this dream, but you did; thank League Championship playoff game against the 1st Marine Blair Hencratt, a flight line mechanic contractor you taking this ride with me.” Logistics Group Beast at the Paige Field House Football and a Red Bluff, Calif., native, works on an aircraft The Falcons plan to continue with their hard work and fans look for- Field aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., ward to next year. engine aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Nov. 20. The Falcons lost the game but earned second place Calif., Nov. 28. in the Camp Pendleton Football League. 2 2 Flight Jacket RETURN TO TOP www.FlightJacket.comFlight Jacket 203 Air traffic controllers MTACS-38 changes hands keep sky safe Video created by Cpl. Kevin Crist

Lt. Col. Scott Gondek Lt. Col. Kevin Korpinen

Lt. Col. Scott A. Gondek relinquished command of Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron 38 to Lt. Col. Kevin Korpinen in a change of com- mand ceremony aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 6. New CO takes reins of

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Consolidated Public Affairs Office Contact (Click) us Public Affairs Chief Public Affairs Director Deputy/Media OIC Community Relations Master Sgt. Grady Fontana Maj. Carl Redding 1st Lt. Tyler Balzer Lt. Col. Travis S. Kelley Lt. Col. Byron D. Sullivan Press SNCOIC Press OIC Community 3rd MAW (FWD) PAO Media Relations Relations OIC Lt. Col. Travis S. Kelley relinquished command of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 to Lt. Col. Byron D. Sullivan in a change of command Staff Sgt. 1st Lt. Scott 1st Lt. Chad Hill Press Department ceremony aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 7. Donald Bohanner Murdock 1st Lt. Jose Negrete 24 Flight Jacket