MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO

AND THE WESTERN RECRUITING REGION Vol. 71 – Issue 10 “Where Marines Are Made” FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2011 San Diego veterans get surprise visit

by Lance Cpl. Michael Ito the hospital is not encouraging Chevron staff or exhilarating. The Single Marine Program from Marine When the idea of military Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, service comes to mind, the however, is there to help. recalled images are usually of Ten depot Marines from SMP gallant dashes to capture a hill, were sent to the San Deigo VA massive assaults on foreign medical center in La Jolla, Calif. beaches or the legendary flag April 6. The trip was organized raising on Mount Suribachi. by depot SMP director Michelle While it’s true that these Diamond. moments capture the themes Their mission was to raise and emotions of selfless service morale of the veterans at the to country, they do not tell the hospital as well as connect the whole story. These war heroes depot and its Marines to retired complete their service and go military and the community at on to a new mission-successful large. citizenship. The Marines toured several Tens of millions of Americans areas of the health center, starting have honorably served in the with the mental health ward. armed forces and moved on to They spoke to patients suffering Company B, Platoon 1023 is inspected while filing in and getting alinged to begin initial drill lead successful lives in the civilian from several mental health issues as the sun was coming up over the arcade. Platoon 1023 was the first platoon to perform world. Living the military life ranging from combat-related Saturday morning. induces stressors on a person that stress injuries, to conditions require care later on in life. This developed after leaving the is where the Veterans’ Affairs service. Department becomes involved. They then made their way to Co. B reaches initial drill The VA health system takes visit with veterans in the Spine by Pfc. Crystal Druery cold the drill instructors tial drill showcases the drill care of more than 22 million Injury Clinic and then the therapy American veterans throughout wing. Chevorn staff rubbed their hands together instructors’ dedication and vigorously, hoping to the recruits’ newfound dis- 784 community clinics and “It was a hugely different As the sun rose over the generate heat and keep them cipline. 152 health centers or hospitals. perspective,” said Lance Cpl. horizon of the arcade aboard from going stiff. “The junior drill instruc- The San Diego VA healthcare Calvin Garrett, Basic Marine Marine Corps Recruit Depot Initial drill, held on train- tor teaches the recruits every- network is comprised of seven Platoon. “These are the guys who Saturday morning, drill ing day 17, wraps up the thing pertaining to drill, the community-based clinics and have been where we are. It was instructors of Company B third week of recruit train- newest drill instructor calls one major health center. humbling to speak to veterans sat in the reviewing booth ing. This is an important cadence for initial drill. Filling that health center that were a part of the old stories waiting for initial drill to day for both the recruits are hundreds of former service we hear and learn about.” begin. The air was so bitter and drill instructors. Ini- see DRILL42 members and their families, and unfortunately time spent in see VISIT42 Commandant cracks down on body composition by Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas expects from the Marine Corps. “All of the commands aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Chevron Staff They think there is a lack of compliance and equality of have been notified of this,” said Staff Sgt. Jose Navarette, enforcement among the ranks. The Commandant has directed inspector general chief, depot inspector. “Last year we Recently the Commandant of the Marine Corps has decided the Inspector General of the Marine Corps to ensure immediate proactively included the Physical Fitness Test and the Combat to crack down on body composition in the Marine Corps compliance to the Body Composition Program and Military Fitness Test and inspected 25 percent of personnel aboard because he has discovered an unsatisfactory amount of Marines Appearance Program. the depot during the Commanding General’s Inspection who are overweight. “Admittedly, decisions to assign Marines to the Body Program. With this crackdown we have ‘upped’ it to 50 The order itself, Marine Corps Order P1600.12, has been Composition and Military Appearance Programs are difficult and percent.” in effect since 2002. The order focuses mainly on the physical sometimes involve Marines who are otherwise solid performers. It The MCRD inspector general says the depot is going to fitness of a Marine and their height and weight standards. is, however, the right thing to do.” said Gen. James Conway, 34th adhere to exactly what the new MARADMIN states. If a Marine fails their Physical Fitness Test, or is put on a Commandant of the Marine Corps, during an interview with “The “We are Marines; we have a physical training standard,” Body Composition Program, they will be placed on a Remedial Marine Corps Times.” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Brian C. Paradis, band master, Physical Conditioning Program. According to Marine Administrative Message 0190/09, if Marine Band San Diego. “We are simply doing our job as This program uses a combination of aerobic and resistance Marines do not meet established Body Composition Program leaders and holding Marines accountable to that standard. conditioning to get that Marine back to standards after a standards, they will be notified of their deficiencies and processed We, as leaders, can’t be reactionary when it comes to individual weight issue, injury, illness, pregnancy or a period that lacked a for BCP assignment. physical readiness. The standards need to be enforced at all structured physical fitness program. The MARADMIN also states that the Inspector General of the times. It shouldn’t come as a surprise to an individual Marine According to Marine Administrative Message 157/11 Marine Corps will provide an unbiased and objective analysis of the when they are identified as being out of shape.” released March 11, the Commandant and the Sergeant Major Body Composition and Marine Appearance Programs across the For more information, refer to Marine Administrative of the Marine Corps are continually observing Marines of all Marine Corps. The results will be submitted to the Commandant Message 0190/09, Marine Administrative Message 157/11 and ranks that lack the military appearance they believe America of the Marine Corps for review and future guidance. Marine Corps Order P1600.12.

Takin’ care of business Gitty up – Go San Diego’s Coast The Corps makes Guardsmen protect family readiness a team international waters l p. 4 sport l p. 8 2 CHEVRON NEWS AND COMMENTARY APRIL 15, 2011

Happiest baby on the block class Learn how to soothe your infant and help your baby sleep longer. The happiest baby on the block class is taught by certified educators in the New Parent Support Program. This workshop, scheduled for Apr. 20, is for parents and infants up to six months old. Expectant parents are also welcome. Registration is required. For information and to register, call (619) 524-0805.

Self-defense class for women A self-defense class for women is offered Apr. 23 from 9 a.m. to noon in Bldg. 5E. The class promotes personal safety for women including awareness, assertiveness, verbal confrontational skills, safety strategies, and physical techniques that enable a person to successfully avoid, prevent, escape and survive violent assaults. Space is limited and registration is required. For information and to register, call Family Advocacy at (619) 524-0465.

Month of the Military Child April is the Month of the Military Child. Join us as we celebrate and Lance Cpl. Eric Quintanilla recognize the importance of our Military children aboard the depot lined up to meet Lance Cpl. Belleau Wood, the depot mascot, during a Month of the Military military children. Your child will Child event April 4. The children were invited to interactive classes throughout spring break to recognize them for their part be entered in a raffle for each event in the success of their parents. attended! All events will be held at Bldg. 6E. The last event is: • April 23 - 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Depot celebrates Month of the Military Child L.I.N.K.S. for kids (6 to 12 years old) “Our Children, Our Future, Our by Lance Cpl. Eric Quintanilla with the military, and a workshop that The activity mornings are held Responsibility” Chevron staff focuses on feelings and how to make regularly on the depot for children good choices. under five years old, allowing them to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San “It’s important to give positive participate in crafts and tell stories. Introduction to special Diego is celebrating the Month of recognition to what they do,” said This gives parents and children an education the Military Child by hosting classes Genica “They are the key to their opportunity to socialize. Karen Taylor, attorney for the available to all children aboard the parent’s success.” The last event this month will be a Exceptional Family Member Program depot throughout April. This month is a sample of all the L.I.N.K.S. class for children ages six at MCRD San Diego, will host a Marine Corps Family Team Building classes offered to children aboard the through 12 held at the building 6E work-shop to help parents understand prepared a total of eight classes, which depot, said Patricia L. Kalaye, Marine classroom April 23. the world of special education. help children understand the challenges Corps Family Readiness Lifestyle, L.I.N.K.S. is a volunteer, team- The event is scheduled to be associated with military life. Five of Insights, Networking, Knowledge and mentoring program that offers an held in the MCRD family readiness these took place the first week of April Skills trainer. orientation to the Marine Corps classroom April 26, from 9:30 until during spring break. “Getting [the classes] will help them lifestyle, helping new spouses and 11:30 a.m. “We want to bring them into the in the long run,” said Genica. “It puts children adapt to the unique challenges Topics include: forefront and give them credit for all valuable tools in their tool boxes.” military life often presents. • Special education law they do and what they live through,” At each event, toys donated by This is the first year the depot has • Special education process said Tracy Genica, Marine Corps Operation Homefront, a nonprofit put together a set of events to celebrate • Parental rights Family Team Building trainer. organization that provides emergency this month and each had about 30 • Tips & strategies The first week of events included financial and other assistance to participants. For more information or to RSVP, an interactive story time with parents, the families of service members and “Military children get missed a lot,” contact Anna Nguyen at (619) 524- classes that help children understand wounded warriors, were raffled off to said Genica. “Their opinions are just as 8031 or [email protected] the changing environments associated the children. valuable as the spouse’s.” Marketing yourself for a second career DRILL 31 daily routine to aid muscle memory since they have a limited time to practice drill due to the abundant amount of The Career Resource Center will and the senior drill instructor calls cadence for final drill,” knowledge and physical training the recruits are required to host a “Marketing Yourself for a said senior drill instructor Staff Sgt. Scott Chromy of fit in such a short time frame. Second career,” seminar on May 5 Platoon 1026, First Recruit Battalion, a Freemont, Calif., After countless hours of drill and memorizing ditties, the from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in the Lifelong native. recruits and drill instructors are evaluated on the parade Learning Center, Bldg. 111. This free In the first phase of training, the recruits are tasked with deck by their battalion drill master and the company chief event is open to all, and is a value learning the basic commands and movements of close-order drill instructors. The drill master is a drill instructor put in added benefit for servicemembers drill. Close-order drill is the art of marching, maneuvering a position where he specializes in teaching and evaluating who plan to retire or leave the and handling weapons in precision formations. close order drill. military in the next 12 to 18 months. The drill instructors help the recruits remember the Each individual evaluating the platoon finds Spouses are encouraged to attend. timing of the drill movements by teaching them “ditties,” discrepancies and subtracts points on a 100 point scale. In the seminar learn how to: or short phrases spoken during drill movements. This helps Their points are then totaled, and the winning platoon • Create a plan for your job search the recruits keep in sync with the rest of the platoon. is determined based off who earned the highest points. • Write standout résumés and cover The recruits develop muscle memory over a short time This allows each platoon displaying who has the best basic letters due to constant practice and repetition, making each recruit understanding of close order drill at this point of training. • Successfully interview and capable of executing any drill movement they’ve been taught The platoons have a chance to redeem themselves if they network without hesitation. weren’t the winner of initial drill when each platoon is • Penetrate the hidden job market Various drill movements are worked into the recruits’ reevaluated third phase in final drill. • Negotiate salary and benefits • Manage rejection For reservations call Mina Threat at (619) 524-1283/5728 or e-mail visit 1 3 Forty or 50 years out is not something you they were sent off with warm thanks and [email protected] think about on a daily basis.” salutes from veterans, visitors and staff The visit also gave the Marines a unique Even after those 40 or 50 years, the alike. look at the often under-recognized process enjoyment of socializing with fellow service “It was an amazingly positive experi- Send briefs to: of military life after leaving the service. members was evident by the smiles on the ence,” said Pfc. Rodrigo Barba, Basic Marine [email protected]. The Chev- “It’s not something we usually think patients’ faces. The same could be said of Platoon. “I felt like I was doing good, but ron staff reserves the right to publish about,” said Pvt. Nicholas Polichio, Basic the Marines who laughed with WWII and I came out with just as much, if not more, only those briefs that comply with Marine Platoon. “We spend a lot of time Korea veterans while they were completing than I put in. Those vets served our country Department of Defense regulations concentrating on what we’re doing now, and their physical therapy. and it’s a great opportunity that I got to and the standards of the U.S. Govern- what we have to do for today or tomorrow. As the Marines left the health center, share some time with them.” ment. CHEVRON AROUND THE CORPS APRIL 15, 2011 3

Around the depot This week the Chevron asks: “How do you feel about women in combat?”

Capt. Caleb Eames/31st MEU Marines of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, sailors with Amphibious Squadron 11, Japanese Ground Self – Defense Forces and local citizens unload food and water from a U.S. Navy landing craft, March 27. The 31st MEU and PHIBRON 11 picked up Japanese utility repair vehicles from the port in Kessenuma and delivered food, water, comfort items and the vehicles to residents on this isolated island. The island of Oshima has been cut off from the mainland since the earthquake and tsunami March 11. The operation demonstrated the MEU’s expeditionary capabilities in ship-to-shore amphibious operations. Marines and Sailors of the 31st MEU are I’m not sure it’s a good conducting humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions in northeast Japan, assisting the Japanese Self – Defense Forces in their idea because males might ongoing operations. get attached to a female Marine they are working alongside, resulting in the male possibly jeopardizing Maritime Contingency Force proves ready for all missions the well being of fellow male Marines to save a by Cpl. Michael A. Bianco the coast of Akita, Japan, March 17 because the MEU trains for missions like female Marine first. Lance 31st MEU Cpl Katie Snell, administrative and began flying coastal surveillance this,” said Capt. Bradley Gibson, CH-46E clerk, Consolidated Personnel flights. Then, on March 22, the ARG Sea Knight helicopter pilot with HMM- Administrative Center USS ESSEX, AT SEA — Most associate repositioned off the east coast of Japan, 262. “Although it is a devastating time service members with combat and near Hachinohe, and the 31st MEU for the people of Japan, it is also exciting training to fight our nation’s wars. immediately began delivering relief to be able to execute the mission and However, as the Asia-Pacific region’s supplies ashore via helicopters of Marine use the training. There is an immediate force-in-readiness, the 31st Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 sense of pride when you know you’re Expeditionary Unit is always prepared (Reinforced). Supplies delivered included going to be part of something that is to support any operation including water, blankets, and other health going to help so many people.” humanitarian assistance and disaster and comfort items. HMM-262 (Rein) In total, the 31st MEU and the Essex relief. conducted a total of 15 survey missions ARG moved more than 160,000 pounds The 31st MEU completed its and 204 supply delivery missions with of relief supplies to those affected by the participation in Operation Tomodachi nearly 300 hours of flight time. disaster. on April 7, after nearly three weeks “We train for this, we’re good at “It’s great to have this sort of of conducting relief operations with this, and in fact, in the last 3 years, opportunity,” said Petty Officer 3rd the Japan Maritime and Ground Self- the MEU has conducted five different Class Emilio Casenave, a corpsman with Defense Forces in support of Operation humanitarian assistance missions,” Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, Tomodachi. said Col. Andrew MacMannis, 31st 5th Marines, 31st MEU. “I’ve never seen Operation Tomodachi, which means MEU commanding officer. “Most of the anything like this. These people are in a ‘friendship’ in Japanese, included U.S. Marines aboard have executed a mission horrible situation, but it’s a great feeling forces adding assistance to Japanese or have trained and been evaluated on knowing something we did actually I believe we are all Marines efforts to respond to the massive it.” impacted someone’s life and helped make regardless of sex, religion devastation which occurred after a 9.0 On March 27, the MEU and Essex it better.” or race. Female Marines go to recruit training as well earthquake and subsequent tsunami ARG’s priority became to support the Lt. Hiroaki Tanaka, Japanese Marine and are trained the same struck Japan, March 11. isolated island of Oshima. The units Self Defense Force member who served as a male Marine. This is The 31st MEU was split into three began by transporting relief supplies, as a liaison officer between Japanese just one more step towards separate parts on the day of the disaster. which included moving commercial and U.S. forces in the area, expressed furthering equality in the The largest ship, USS Essex (LHD 2), electric utility vehicles, a fuel truck, appreciation on behalf of the people of Marine Corps. Sgt. Kadari I. Shortridge, Recruiters School with most of the Marines and sailors a water re-supply vehicle and civilian Japan. “Thank you,” said Tanaka. “We of the 31st MEU aboard, had just workers from the Tohoku Power are extremely thankful for your help completed an exercise in Cambodia and Company by U.S. Navy landing craft and cooperation. I will never forget had arrived in Malaysia for a port visit. to restore partial power to the cut-off everything you have done for us.” When 31st MEU leadership received island. As it currently stands, the 31st MEU news of the tsunami, they initiated an During the Oshima operation, two does not have any other relief missions immediate recall of all personnel who pallets of clothes, blankets, food and planned. The MEU remains available for were away from the ship on liberty. The toys donated by Marines and sailors tasking, but does not expect the Japanese ship quickly took on some supplies, and were flown to the JMSDF helicopter government will require more assistance. in less than 24 hours was underway to destroyer JS Hyuga (DDH 181) by Marine The Japanese government has a large Japan where it would meet up with USS helicopters, where they were distributed relief operation underway, which the Germantown (LSD 42) and USS Harpers to displaced residents of the island who 31st MEU supported over the past few Ferry (LSD 49). were temporarily embarked aboard the weeks. Now it appears 31st MEU support Germantown and Harpers Ferry were ship. may no longer be needed, which shows both in Indonesia with elements of the Working alongside the JGSDF, the that the Japanese government and the 31st MEU embarked, and Marines and 31st MEU delivered 15,000 pounds of Japanese Ground Self Defense Force are sailors aboard the USS Harpers Ferry supplies to the island and cleared tons of able to stand on their own to recover were scheduled to participate in a large debris from harbors, roads and beaches. from the disaster. The Marines have humanitarian assistance and disaster Marines also created temporary shower helped their friends in their time of As long as the women relief exercise starting March 12. Both facilities allowing residents to bathe. For need, and stand ready to support further Marines get the job done, and they’re doing ships were immediately alerted upon some it was the first time they had been if called upon. everything right, what’s news of the disaster in Japan and headed able to take a shower since the tsunami The 31st MEU is the nation’s only wrong with it? Recruit Victor north for the stricken country. struck. continually forward-deployed MEU and O. Yvellez, Co. C, Platoon 1054, The Essex Amphibious Ready Group “When I first heard about the mission remains ready to respond to a wide range 1st Battalion and the 31st MEU first arrived off it was a little bit of a surreal feeling of crisis and contingency operations.

PUBLIC AFFAIRS DIRECTOR COMBAT CORRESPONDENTS chevron/public affairs office henderson ave Maj. Michael W. Armistead Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas 1600 . #120 Lance Cpl. Eric Quintanilla san diego, ca. 92140 (619) 524-8722 Lance Cpl. Michael Ito DEPUTY DIRECTOR www.marines.mil/unit/tecom/mcrdsandiego/Pages/welcome.aspx Pfc. Crystal Druery ESTABLISHED 1942 Janice M. Hagar The Chevron, printed with appropriated funds in compliance with Marine COMMANDING GENERAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS CHIEF Corps order P5600.31F, is published by Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego personnel. Opinions and views expressed herein are not necessar- aj en onald ailey Master Sgt. Robert G. Knoll M . G . R L. B ily those of the Marine Corps or the Department of Defense. The Chevron EDITOR is promulgated for informational purposes only and in no way should be SERGEANT MAJOR PRESS CHIEF Roger Edwards considered directive in nature. All photos are official USMC property unless Sgt. Maj. Sylvester D. Daniels Cpl. Kristin E. Moreno [email protected] otherwise indicated. 4 CHEVRON FEATURE APRIL 15, 2011

Coast Guard’s presence crucial to maritime security by Cpl. Kristin E. Moreno “Since PACTACLET is a arduous qualification process that basis, training is a vital part of Havana, Cuba, while embarked Chevron staff deployable force, we can be takes about a year to reach full ensuring mission readiness. on HMS Manchester where sent anywhere,” said Lt. j.g. qualification at this unit,” said Without continuous training, the they engaged in discussions Since 1933, the Coast Guard Michael Holt, Law Enforcement Holt. “It’s definitely one of the units here might not be able to pertaining to maritime law has been an essential part of Detachment 103 officer-in-charge. hardest qualification processes complete what is necessary. enforcement operations in the Marine Corps Recruit Depot “Our typical patrols are in the However, being at MCRD Caibbean. San Diego. Without the Coast [U.S. Southern Command] area San Diego puts PACTACLET Within the last 12 months, Guard Pacific Tactical Law of responsibility, but we’ve also at a slight advantage. It allows PACTACLETS LEDETs Enforcement Team, composed of deployed overseas to Greece and PACTACLET to utilize resources deployed on 10 U.S. and allied eight different law enforcement Bahrain. We can potentially go that normally wouldn’t be naval vessels and conducted detachments, the coastline would wherever there’s a need.” available to Coast Guard 28 counter-drug boardings, be left unprotected and waters Depending on the units, such as the range, resulting in the interdiction of unsecured. operation tempo, rappel tower and swim 8 go-fast vessels. They removed Their main mission is to deploy various law enforcement tank equipped with a 4,800 kilos of cocaine worth an aboard U.S. and allied naval detachments can deploy at 10-foot platform. estimated street value of more vessels to conduct and support once. Holt said PACTACLET than $72 million. Also, LEDET maritime law enforcement, such as “We ultimately take gets to train in assault 104 assisted the Panamanian counter narcotics and terrorism, over the vessel we’re forces that Marines Coast Guard in intercepting and alien migrant interdiction, deployed on,” said Chief use, like room and recovering 46 bales of contraband maritime interception, counter Petty Officer Mark Enzo- house clearing and close and LEDET 103 achieved a piracy and homeland security. Rodriguez, maritime movement with weapons. cocaine bust of 675 kilos valued With only approximately 115 enforcement specialist They go out much more more than $15 million. In August servicemembers and the only chief and detachment chief. geared than most Coast 2010, PACTACLET was awarded other tactical law enforcement “Sometimes the crew is Guard teams and only about the United States Interdiction team more than 2,600 miles away, experienced enough and knows five percent of the Coast Guard Coordinator Award for their that leaves one of the largest areas what we do, but we always brief will ever experience what they’re performance in the surface of responsibility in the Coast them on what the unit will do on able to do on a Marine Corps interdiction of illegal drugs Guard in the PACTACLET’s more- ship and the authority we have.” base. during fiscal year 2009. than-capable hands. When not deploying for PACTACLET has recently “We see a difference They cover everything from missions, their daily routine I have ever been through, and qualified five TACLET in military bearing and the Northern Arabian Gulf to revolves around mission everyone else here says the same deployable team leaders, eight professionalism on a Marine the territory of Guam and the readiness. thing.” boarding officers and 45 Corps base,” said Holt. “It allows Caribbean, but their area of “New people that come in Because they don’t deal with boarding team members. They us to strive to be better and responsibility doesn’t stop there. have to go through a really any specific scenario on a daily have also made a port-of-call to accomplish higher goals.

A member of the Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement Team completes a vertical insertion drill, fast roping from the HH-60 Jayhawk helicopter to the deck of the 87-foot Coast Guard Cutter Petrel.

U.S. Coast Guard photo A law enforcement boarding team member displays two bricks of cocaine Law Enforcement Detachment 106 captures a cocaine-laden Self-Propelled Semi-Submersible in the Eastern Pacific found during a counter-narcotics interception operation. Ocean. LEDET 106 recovered 6 tons of cocaine and 4 drug smugglers during the mission. CHEVRON FEATURE APRIL 15, 2011 5

Coast Guard’s presence crucial to maritime security Havana, Cuba, while embarked on HMS Manchester where they engaged in discussions pertaining to maritime law enforcement operations in the Caibbean. Within the last 12 months, PACTACLETS LEDETs deployed on 10 U.S. and allied naval vessels and conducted 28 counter-drug boardings, resulting in the interdiction of 8 go-fast vessels. They removed 4,800 kilos of cocaine worth an estimated street value of more than $72 million. Also, LEDET 104 assisted the Panamanian Coast Guard in intercepting and recovering 46 bales of contraband and LEDET 103 achieved a cocaine bust of 675 kilos valued more than $15 million. In August 2010, PACTACLET was awarded the United States Interdiction Coordinator Award for their performance in the surface interdiction of illegal drugs during fiscal year 2009. “We see a difference in military bearing and professionalism on a Marine Corps base,” said Holt. “It allows us to strive to be better and accomplish higher goals.

Lance Cpl. Michael Ito Lt. j.g. Michael Holt, Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement Team, Law Enforcement Detachment 103 officer-in-charge, completes a recertification exercise on Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego’s rappel tower April 11. The fast-rope exercise simulates the de-boarding of helicopters during an actual mission. The members of PACTACLET complete this certification semiannually.

U.S. Coast Guard photo A member of the Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement Team completes a vertical insertion drill, fast roping from the HH-60 Jayhawk helicopter to the deck of the 87-foot Coast Guard Cutter Petrel.

U.S. Coast Guard photo A precision marksman-aerial with the Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement Team, home based at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, prepares to engage a target in a required training exercise on his Barrett .50 sniper rifle. The marksmen follow the aerial use of force when trying to stop a go-fast vessel during a mission. Aerial use of force consists of first firing warning rounds then escalating to shooting out the engine if the vessel refuses to cooperate.

U.S. Coast Guard photo Law Enforcement Detachment 106 captures a cocaine-laden Self-Propelled Semi-Submersible in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. LEDET 106 recovered 6 tons of cocaine and 4 drug smugglers during the mission. 6 CHEVRON FEATURE APRIL 15, 2011 Band NCO puts ‘kill foot’ forward, goes Recon by Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas To look at this Marine, hear him speak My family was very musical,” said Jones. “I example,” said Jones. “It’s actually exciting Chevron Staff and watch his routine, not many would think would do stuff like play in a traveling youth to stay motivated all the time. It seems like that he belongs to Marine Band San Diego. symphony. I was first chair in my section everyone looks to you, like you make them “Be more convincing with that ‘kill,’” Jones plays the French horn in the band, since sixth grade.” want to be better. Also, don’t put yourself in bellowed the 6’ 3”, 195-pound sergeant as he is a black belt MCMAP instructor but he Jones didn’t really play sports while he the limelight, none of that, ‘Hey, look what I instructed his Marines on the proper smash said he wants more out of his career. So he was in school, so he said he didn’t get to feel can do’ stuff.” technique during a Marine Corps Martial decided to switch his military occupational the brotherhood of a sports team. He called Jones has his own view on what being an Arts lesson. “All I’m hearing right now are, specialty to Reconnaissance. himself a nerd because he constantly got NCO means. He feels Marines should take ‘children’s books,’ and ‘lollipops.’” “If you have to imagine someone you good grades. Eventually, he started to think care of their Marines and adjust to the way Sgt. Ryan Jones turned sideways to despise in front of you to really follow differently. they learn. If they learn to understand that, his students, performing the smash with through with your move, then do it,” he “I wanted to do something beyond myself, then they can guide them easier. Jones even ferocity coming to an abrupt stop in front said, with a demon’s grin. “I have to do it something that would challenge me, because spent his personal time to conduct remedial of his simulated opponent, keeping intense, sometimes.” I wanted to be the best at everything,” said MCMAP training for Marines who need straight-forward eye contact with them. “When I was a kid I was a total band geek. Jones, “I wanted it to be something that help with certain moves.. He wants to be able mattered.” to motivate and inspire his Marines to better Jones was only 17 when he decided he themselves. wanted to enlist in the Marines. To enlist he “Being a sergeant is setting an example needed his parent’s signature, but they would of what Marines should be,” said Jones. only sign if he enlisted in the band. Jones was “Unspeakable strength and valor -- you want okay with that. He could explore the paid- to be that shining star to young Marines musician aspect of the corps. who come under your charge and are scared. “To top that off, my family all went to the It’s not about bettering yourself, it’s about same college, and I was expected to go to it, bettering others.” too,” said Jones, “Enlisting really broke the After being in the Marines for three- mold and angered a few people, but it allowed and-a-half years Jones said it’s time for him me to make my own footsteps.” to start thinking about career changing As far as Jones knows, he is the first decisions. Marine in his family, but other members “The band has been fun,” said Jones, “but have served in the Army, Navy and Air I really want to get my boots on the ground.” Force. Jones joined the Marines to be the best Jones, a native of Penfield, N.Y., shipped and feels that with recon being considered to Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, as the “elite brotherhood,” it would be more S.C., on Aug. 20, 2007, after graduating from his speed. He wants to deploy and is looking Penfield High School. forward to the training he will receive with “Amazingly enough, I didn’t really get deployment. Jones said he is expecting, and picked on for being in the band while I was looking forward to being miserable as he in boot camp,” said Jones. “I was squad trains in his new MOS. leader from the beginning of second phase “When I first joined, I wasn’t really into until graduation, so they tended to leave me it,” said Jones. “Later, I was encouraged to alone.” become a martial arts instructor. During that Upon completing boot camp and Marine training I got mud and blood on my fingers. Combat Training at Camp Geiger, N.C., After that, it was over. I had fallen in love Jones attended his military occupational with the combat mindset of the Marines. I specialty school at the Armed Forces School knew there had to be something better.” of Music in Norfolk, Va. Given time to reflect on his decision to go Jones was then assigned to Marine Band recon, Jones said that he will miss the friends San Diego as a lance corporal, and after 9 he has made in the band. He also believes months, he picked up corporal. He was that it will be a tremendous change after promoted to sergeant at the age of 19. playing the French horn for a little more than “Initially, my goal as a corporal was to be half of his life. He said that he will be gaining my absolute best,” said Jones. “I worked my much more than he will be giving up though. butt off, and I stayed extremely motivated. Jones has led a motivated career with I wanted to set the example for my fellow plenty of Marines. Even those not in his shop Marines and maybe even outdo a few have gone to him for inspiration. When he sergeants.” Jones said. gets to his next duty station he is determined Jones was on several boards as a corporal to be just as motivated and try to be that where he faced three other senior corporals. shining star for a new batch of Marines. Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas He was also on a Noncommissioned Officer “Cling onto your mentors, good NCOs Sgt. Ryan Jones, a native of Penfield, N.Y., practices playing his French horn in of the Quarter board at both the battalion and your fellow Marines,” said Jones, “When one of the rehearsal rooms at the band hall aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot and the depot, and won. About three months you find the ‘right one,’ pick their brains San Diego. Jones has been playing the French horn for 12 years, but is turning later, he won a meritorious sergeant board. and try to emulate them. Find your own in his horn to re-enlist and change his current military occupational specialty to “The biggest key to succeeding is motivation, your own Zen. Above all, stay Reconnaissance. believing in what you do and setting the motivated.”

Sgt. Maj. Donald L. at Naval Station North Island, Coronado, responsibilities and billet as first sergeant for for OIF 06-08.2, and returned in March Calif. While in this assignment, Jones was the Supply Company. 2008. Jones was reassigned to his current Jones II supply noncommissioned officer in charge, In July 1997, he was transferred to Marine duties as sergeant major of Headquarters and and commander of the guard. Expeditionary Unit Service Support Group 13, Service Battalion, MCRD San Diego on July Parade Reviewing Officer In October 1988, Jones was transferred to 13th MEU (Special Operations Capable), as 31, 2008. MACS-4, Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st the supply detachment supply chief. Jones was His personal decorations include the Sergeant Major Donald L. Jones II enlisted Marine Aircraft Wing on Okinawa. After promoted to first sergeant in September 1999, Bronze Star, the Navy and Marine Corps in the Marine Corps on March 27, 1981. Upon completing that tour in August 1989, he and assigned to 1st Transportation Support Commendation Medal with three gold stars, completion of recruit training at Marine received orders as a drill instructor at Marine Battalion, 1st FSSG, 1st MEF. Later, in May the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, he attended Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. 2000, he was transferred to Marine Corps Medal with three gold stars and the Infantry Training School at Camp Pendleton, When he completed drill instructor school, Security Force Company, London. There he Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. Calif., and was designated a rifleman. He Jones was assigned to Golf Company, 2nd trained with the British Royal Marines. was then assigned to Marine Barracks, Naval Recruit Training Battalion, as a drill instructor Jones was the last first sergeant of Weapons Station Concord, Calif. and senior drill instructor until February MCSFCO London, before its deactivation Following promotions to lance corporal 1992. Jones was the 2nd Battalion Drill on June 28, 2002. Upon the unit deactiva- and corporal, Jones was transferred to 2nd Instructor of the Quarter and was selected tion, Jones was reassigned to 1st Battalion, Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine for meritorious promotion to staff sergeant in 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. Division at Camp Pendleton in May 1983. November 1991. His battalion was assigned to the 13th MEU While a member of this unit, he served as a Following his promotion, Jones was sent (SOC), and the first Battalion Landing Team fire team leader, squad leader and as a platoon back to Okinawa, assigned to Marine Air designated to be a part of Expeditionary guide. During this tour his unit was rotated Support Squadron 2, Marine Air Control Strike Group-One for Operation Iraqi to Camp Hansen, 3rd Marine Division, Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing for duty Freedom. Returning to the United States in Okinawa, Japan. until March 1993 when he was reassigned to March 2004, his battalion was reassigned in Upon his return, Jones reenlisted and in Inspector-Instructor Staff, 1st Battalion, 14th June 2004 to be the Ground Combat Element 1984 and was transferred to Marine Heavy Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division in for the 15th MEU (SOC), Expeditionary Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Air Group Alameda, Calif. Strike Group 5. 16 at Marine Corps Air Station, Tustin, Calif. Jones completed his duties and was Promoted to sergeant major on Dec. His squadron deployed to MCAS Futenma, promoted to gunnery sergeant in May 1996. 1, 2004, Jones was reassigned to Marine Okinawa in 1985. Jones was promoted He was assigned back to the Fleet Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, MWSG-37, to sergeant and transferred in July 1986, Force with Supply Battalion, 1st Force Service 3rd Marine Air Wing, Camp Pendleton, reporting to Sea School, MCRD San Diego, Support Group, 1st Marine Expeditionary which had returned from deployment from for sea duty. Upon completion of sea school, Force, Camp Pendleton. While there, OIF 04-06.2 in March 2006. The unit, he reported to the Marine detachment on Jones was hand picked by the battalion redesignated as Marine Wing Security board the aircraft carrier USS Ranger, based commander and sergeant major to assume the Battalion 372, deployed to Al Asad Air Base CHEVRON GRADUATING COMPANY APRIL 15, 2011 7

Platoon 2153 Platoon 2150 Platoon 2149 Platoon 2151 Platoon 2154 Platoon 2155 Platoon 2149 Platoon 2151 COMPANY HONOR MAN SERIES HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN HIGH SHOOTER (336) HIGH PFT (300) Lance Cpl. B. T. Randall Pfc. H. R. Carreon Pfc. K. M. Livingston Pfc. C. E. Juarez Pfc. M. S. Morshed Pfc. P. L. Todd Pvt. J. A. Islava-Guerrero Pfc. C. L. Gray Shorewood, Wis. Bakersfield, Calif. Tyler, Texas Austin, Texas Orangevale, Calif. Roseville, Calif. Amado, Ariz. Dallas Recruited by Recruited by Recruited by Recruited by Recruited by Recruited by Marksmanship Instructor Recruited by Staff Sgt. R. G. Hazleton Staff Sgt. B. K. Karlsson Staff Sgt. B. S. Laird Staff Sgt. B. Spencer Gunnery Sgt. J. Myers Gunnery Sgt. T. Alexandra Sgt. F. J. Chavez Gunnery Sgt. A. Walters GOLF COMPANY HONOR PLATOON

2nd RECRUIT SERIES 2149 PLATOON 2149 PLATOON 2150 PLATOON 2151 TRAINING BATTALION Series Commander Senior Drill Instructor Senior Drill Instructor Senior Drill Instructor Commanding Officer Capt. E. Juarez Staff Sgt. C. D. Willis Sgt. R. M. Garcialopez Staff Sgt. P. L. Castanon Lt. Col. R. L. Hairston Chief Drill Instructor Drill Instructors Drill Instructors Drill Instructors Sergeant Major Staff Sgt. L. F. Medina Staff Sgt. J. A. Arellano Sgt. C. W. Battaglia Staff Sgt. W. S. Crespin Sgt. Maj. P. A. Siaw Staff Sgt. R. E. Jackson Sgt. D. C. Downing Sgt. J. P. LeBlanc Battalion Drill Master Sgt. J. A. Felix Sgt. D. Hernandez Jr. Sgt. D. E. Trujillo Staff Sgt. K. J. Consiglio Chaplain Lt. Cmdr. G. B. Younger COMPANY G SERIES 2153 PLATOON 2153 PLATOON 2154 PLATOON 2155 Commanding Officer Series Commander Senior Drill Instructor Senior Drill Instructor Senior Drill Instructor Capt. R. C. Higgins Capt. F. L. Sandoval Staff Sgt. G. C. Guevarra Sgt. M. J. Tabarracci Staff Sgt. B. E. Price Company First Sergeant Chief Drill Instructor Drill Instructors Drill Instructors Drill Instructors 1st Sgt. R. C. Ixtlahuac Staff Sgt. C. M. Weiss Staff Sgt. D. P. Chavez Sgt. J. A. Greidanus Staff Sgt. C. O. Harris Sgt. V. A. Black Sgt. C. J. Marcus Staff Sgt. M. P. Kollhoff Sgt. C. R. Sandness Sgt. C. A. Sanchez

* Indicates Meritorious Promotion

PLATOON 2149 PLATOON 2150 PLATOON 2151 PLATOON 2153 PLATOON 2154 PLATOON 2155 Pvt. C. O. Alcala *Pfc. P. L. Ale Pvt. N. A. Aguirre Pfc. M. B. Abarientos Pvt. K. A. Abbasi Pfc. J. A. Holt Pvt. L. Alvarez Pvt. H. E. Aparicio Pvt. T. M. Alves Pfc. J. R. Acfalle Pfc. R. V. Antonio Pvt. B. D. Lomonaco Pvt. C. P. Bacchi Pvt. B. S. Arias Pvt. R. Arias Pvt. C. D. Arana Pvt. S. D. Atkisson Jr. Pvt. I. M. Marquez Pfc. P. J. Barnes Pvt. M. A. Avila Pvt. J. Badillo Pfc. U. H. Barrows Pvt. N. M. Barker Pvt. J. D. McDonald Pfc. R. M. Brown Pvt. G. Avila Pvt. A. J. Barker Pvt. O. Benitez Pvt. H. J. Chance Pvt. A. M. Melaga Pvt. N. L. Bruno Pvt. H. Ayala Pfc. A. M. Bennin Pvt. E. M. Bollard Pvt. M. C. Cottrell Pfc. M. A. Mendoza Pvt. L. A. Bushur Pvt. S. E. Barrios Pfc. D. N. Boone Pfc. S. M. Buda Jr. Pvt. J. J. Danao Pvt. N. Meyer Pfc. M. G. Calegari Pvt. E. C. Blocker Pvt. S. A. Botello Pvt. C. E. Caldera Pfc. G. Delemel *Pfc. J. R. Millick *Pfc. J. A. Campbell Pvt. M. Bohorquez Pvt. C. A. Bryant Pfc. T. G. Caporuscio Jr. Pvt. K. G. Dorn Pfc. J. G. Moallankamp Pvt. M. D. Carpenter Pvt. T. J. Boley Pvt. A. J. Burdick-Frenna Pfc. G. R. Cooper Pvt. S. D. Duncan Pfc. J. A. Moore Pvt. R. P. Chaboya Pvt. J. D. Brown Pvt. E. M. Burgess Pvt. H. J. Cosio Pfc. M. A. Garcia Pvt. W. M. Nelson Pfc. F. M. Good IV Pvt. C. C. Chapman Pfc. M. R. Bujorian Pvt. N. R. Burgi Pvt. A. J. Grantham Pvt. G. M. Olsen Pvt. J. Q. Inumerable *Pfc. A. Chavarria Pvt. R. J. Bunyard Pvt. B. M. Campbell Pvt. O. M. Guerra Pvt. Z. M. Olsen Pvt. A. H. Jemison *Pfc. J. D. Closterman Pvt. H. E. Burciaga-Uribe Pvt. R. O. Carlson Pvt. B. Hernandez Pvt. E. P. Paluch Pvt. S. Kantarevic Pvt. S. T. Collins Pvt. C. V. Callies Pfc. M. A. Chartier Pvt. K. E. Herrera Pvt. J. M. Pasillas Pvt. T. R. Kirchner Pvt. S. M. Corcoran Pfc. A. A. Cantu Pvt. B. A. Clark Pvt. G. J. Lenard Pvt. J. W. Patterson Pfc. J. C. Lomibao Pvt. K. A. Carlsen Pvt. T. Cole Pvt. A. Lopez-Plaza Pvt. G. D. Permann Pvt. J. J. Cornell Pvt. S. M. Lytge Pfc. P. A. Coyac *Pfc. H. R. Carreon *Pfc. J. K. Cortes Pvt. J. B. McKenzie Pvt. L. J. Lucero Pvt. C. M. Phillips Pvt. J. A. Dance Pvt. H. A. Chamroeun *Pfc. B. J. Crandell Pvt. E. Medrano-Agundez Pvt. J. J. Medina *Pfc. C. W. Piehler Pvt. J. A. Davis Pvt. J. M. Chapla Pvt. J. C. Cruz Pvt. D. R. Mills Pvt. J. N. Medrano Jr. Pvt. A. J. Plank Pvt. R. P. Davis Pvt. V. Chen Pfc. J. D. Edgin Pvt. M. A. Moore Pfc. J. A. Mejia-Valverde Pfc. M. P. Pon Pvt. J. Delatorre Pvt. A. J. Christensen Pvt. N. L. Eichorn Pfc. J. E. Morales Pvt. T. A. Menter Pvt. R. S. Puskas Pvt. C. M. Ditch Pfc. F. J. Cianciarulo Pfc. J. E. Engle Pvt. M. Olvera Jr. Pvt. L. W. Mercer *Pfc. C. R. Quaid Pvt. M. S. Dougherty *Pfc. J. B. Collins Pvt. K. M. Eubank *Pfc. A. M. Pacheco Pvt. C.J. Miller Pvt. C. J. Reed Pfc. B. F. Drew Pvt. W. H. Cook *Pfc. M. O. Ezell Pvt. B. A. Pavlak *Pfc. M. J. Miller Pvt. R. R. Ross III Pfc. C. M. Dunn Pvt. Z. N. Coombs Pvt. S. R. Foley Pvt. B. D. Pruitt III Pfc. R. E. Miller Jr. Pfc. J. M. Santos Pfc. T. S. Durham Pvt. M. R. Couch Pvt. T. R. Fox Pvt. J. D. Ramsey Pfc. S. Min Pfc. D. Sarabia Pvt. N. D. Eads III Pvt. G. L. Dalmasso Pfc. E. F. Fuller *Lance Cpl. B. T. Randall Pvt. T. C. Monson Pvt. M. A. Schieler *Pfc. Z. R. Everett Pvt. S. J. Dalrymple Pvt. D. E. Garcia-Velasquez Pvt. D. D. Rice Pvt. R. Mora Jr. Pvt. D. M. Seybold Pvt. J. J. Fortney Pvt. B. D. DeGroote Pvt. M. A. Gerardo Pvt. J. R. Peguero Pvt. B. S. Moreno Pfc. J. C. Silva-Castaneda Pvt. K. M. French II Pvt. C. E. Eberhardt Pvt. M. T. Gilbert-Malcom Pvt. H. A. Pena *Pfc. M. S. Morshed Pvt. A. F. Silveria Pfc. J. M. Gallaway Pvt. P. O. Elder Pvt. E. Gonzalez Pvt. B. T. Phillips Pfc. C. M. Moura Pvt. S. P. Slattery Pvt. D. D. Gazzo Pvt. J. L. Faulks Pfc. T. H. Gooch III Pfc. R. A. Plock Pvt. R. E. Munsterman Pvt. A. G. Smith Pvt. E. A. Gerhards Pvt. Z. E. Frazier Pvt. M. L. Gorenflo Pvt. N. A. Polichio *Pfc. S. Y. Nakayama Pvt. C. R. Smith Pvt. T. D. Giboney Pfc. J. L. Galloway *Pfc. C. L. Gray Pvt. B. A. Richards Jr. Pvt. L. C. Nelsen Pvt. J. W. Smith Pvt. A. B. Gomez Pvt. F. Gonzalez Pfc. B. J. Grover *Pfc. D. A. Rodine Pvt. H. H. Nguyen Pfc. M. D. Smith Pvt. M. A. Gonzales Pvt. N. L. Graves Pvt. C. M. Helms *Pfc. A. A. Romero Pvt. G. D. Nicodemus Pfc. A. N. Snyder Pvt. B. A. Gulino Pfc. C. D. Hawk Pvt. M. D. Hertzog *Pfc. C. L. Rubow Pvt. A. M. Nider Pvt. C. D. Sorteberg Pvt. B. U. Hall II Pvt. M. D. Hefley Pvt. A. C. Herzig Pvt. E. M. Sailors Pvt. S. D. Nielsen Pvt. J. R. Sperry Pvt. D. L. Hand II Pvt. E. D. Hill Pvt. S. L. Hill Pfc. B. J. Sampson Pfc. T. H. Nieman Jr. Pvt. B. B. Stephenson Pvt. R. D. Handson *Pfc. C. R. Huff Pvt. N. M. Holmes Pfc. J. G. Sanchez Pvt. L. M. Norton Pvt. C. J. Stickler Pvt. W. E. Hayes IV Pvt. D. W. Hypolite Pvt. M. P. Hopper Pfc. A. J. Schackman Pfc. J. T. Orsatt *Pfc. W. G. Stover Pfc. S. D. Hoge Pfc. B. S. Johnson Pfc. C. S. Hull Pvt. A. J. Schmerber *Pfc. B. A. Orta Jr. Pfc. B. L. Stowell Pfc. S. T. Hynes Pfc. J. C. Johnson Jr. Pvt. Z. M. Ingraham Pvt. G. E. Shultz Pvt. L. J. Park Pvt. C. M. Strom Pvt. J. A. Islava-Guerrero Pvt. C. J. Jung V Pvt. F. Irons Pfc. K. M. Shean Pvt. T. T. Parrone Pvt. K. J. Swain Pvt. C. W. Jackson Pfc. B. A. Lawrence Pvt. M. T. Isbell Pvt. J. A. Siegel Pvt. B. O. Peralta Pvt. K. M. Taff Pvt. Z. L. Slay Pfc. J. N. Jackson Pvt. W. A. Leestma Pfc. J. A. Jeltema Pvt. M. D. Perez Pvt. O. Taylor Pvt. J. M. Soliz Pfc. C. L. Johnson Pvt. M. J. Lehman Pvt. J. A. Jimenez Pvt. J. J. Pilcher Pvt. A. A. Teferi Pvt. A. W. Stidham Pvt. T. W. Jones Jr. Pvt. Z. S. Logan *Pfc. C. E. Juarez Pfc. Z. C. Pohle Pvt. Z. G. The Pvt. D. J. Stiening Pvt. W. M. Jordan Pvt. S. A. Long Pvt. J. M. Koch Pvt. M. S. Polanco Pvt. J. V. Tidwell Pvt. N. A. St. John Pvt. C. A. Kilmer Pfc. M. W. Love Pvt. J. M. Krumme Pvt. E. Ramirez Pfc. P. L. Todd Pvt. C. S. Taylor Pvt. R. M. Kircher Pvt. J. R. Lowman Pvt. C. P. Kubik *Pfc. J. D. Rasmussen Pvt. A. J. Tucker Pvt. G. T. Thompson Pvt. L. M. Klein Pfc. B. D. Lubben Pfc. J. Lee Pvt. J. E. Reuter Pvt. A. X. Vagts Pvt. M. T. Trus Jr Pfc. K. C. Kohnke Pvt. A. J. Manor Pfc. M. W. Longstreet Pfc. B. R. Ringsdorf Pvt. D. Van Der Warf Pvt. B. C. Tucker Pvt. A. M. Kressley Pvt. I. J. Marin Pvt. M. R. Lopez Pvt. S. R. Ruppert Pfc. R. R. Wade Pvt. T. M. Tucker Pfc. C. R. Martin Pvt. T. W. Lynch Pvt. K. K. Ryan Pfc. Z. D. Wakeland Pvt. M. J. Launiu Pvt. N. J. Tyler Pvt. D. A. Levi Pvt. E. Martinez Pvt. T. L. Marshall Pvt. P. A. Van Dyke Pfc. G. E. Sabers Pvt. B. C. Walker Pfc. C. A. Life Pvt. B. R. Matthai Pvt. J. S. Martin Pvt. C. S. Vaughn Pfc. H. R. Salazar *Pfc. C. J. Ward Pfc. B. R. Linney Pfc. R. L. McClane Pfc. J. M. McAuley Pvt. K. J. Wall Pvt. Z. M. Staman Pvt. D. B. Weatherman Pfc. K. M. Livingston Pfc. B. E. Muhlenkamp Pvt. J. P. McConnell Pvt. C. W. Wheelis Pfc. B. S. Tampa Pvt. M. J. Willet Pvt. J. M. Lozano Pvt. J. G. Rocha Pvt. C. D. McKelvie Pvt. S. R. Wilkeninig Pfc. B. R. Wilson Pvt. J. L. McGee Pfc. K. M. Schulte Pfc. D. D. Meier Pvt. J. T. Wyant Pvt. B. M. Wood Pfc. D. M. Moody Pvt. D. O. Messenger Pfc. D. W. York Pvt. J. H. Young Pvt. C. V. Moreno Pvt. F. Meza-Cisneros Pvt. J. A. White Pvt. C. K. Yudin Pfc. B. R. Sandoval Pvt. H. H. Middaugh Pfc. D. T. Williams Pfc. L. J. Zimmerman Pvt. S. T. Strachan Pvt. K. T. Moore Pfc. N. P. Williamson Pvt. J. Trujillo-Rodriguez Pfc. A. W. Schuetz Pfc. S. T. Worthington Pvt. O. R. Zavala 8 CHEVRON FEATURE APRIL 15, 2011 Marine families prepare for what the future may bring by Lance Cpl. Eric Quintanilla help promote mentorship and help build Chevron staff trust within the community. “It is important for families to know Family readiness is defined by the they are not alone in the challenges they Marine Corps as families who are face, and that there are free programs, prepared and equipped with the skills and such as LINKS, that offer the tools and tools to successfully meet the challenges of support they need,” said Rebecca M. the military lifestyle. Roman, FRO for Headquarters and The Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Service Battalion at MCRD San Diego. Diego hosts classes that offer a wealth of These classes assist with preparing resources to assist with family readiness. for a separation, and also provide the To help achieve this goal, the Marine opportunity to meet other spouses going Corps has hired Family Readiness Officers through the same thing to lean and rely for each unit and are the face of the on for help. commanding officer’s vision for family Family readiness is not only for readiness. The FRO is responsible for married Marines. The Marine Corps promoting classes and providing Marines Community Service Website encourages with the information regarding the this idea by stating that every Marine has resources that are available to them. three families, the one they are born into, The mission of the depot’s family sworn into and married into. readiness division is to build strong “Family readiness is an ongoing “guardrails” for service members and process that increases the tools and their families. This helps to guide and resources available to deal with challenges strengthen families with the tools needed families are likely to face,” said Roman. to succeed in a military environment. Although not many Marines deploy They also help prepare families for the from MCRD, the classes do see an influx unique challenges of a deployment in of participants when there are Marines addition to maintaining a constant state of going on temporary additional duty, said readiness. Roman. Lifestyle, Insights, Networking, The classes also cover the normal cycle Knowledge and Skills or L.I.N.K.S., is a of emotions service members and spouses volunteer, team-mentoring program that go through when preparing and going offers an orientation to the Marine Corps through a separation. lifestyle. It’s taught by military spouses to These emotions are not exclusive to deployments. Drill instructors go through a similar process when they are separated from their families, which can last for extended periods of time as well. The next L.I.N.K.S. for spouses class is a two-day course scheduled for May 3 and 4 in the building 6E classroom. For additional information on family readiness or upcoming classes, contact your unit family readiness officer or visit www.MCCSMCRD.com/ MarineCorpsFamilyTeamBuilding/ FamilyReadiness. Lance Cpl. Joseph Marshall, a squad automatic weapon gunner with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, waits for the sun to rise in Southern Marjah District, Helmand province, Afghanistan, March 23, the first day of Operation Watchtower. Marshall is from Glenallen, Alaska. Sgt. Jesse Stence/ Regimental Combat Team 1

Claire Miller, 21 months old, waves an American flag to greet her father, a member of Patrol Squadron 9, as he returns to Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, from a six-month deployment, Nov. 16. During the deployment, VP-9 detached throughout the Navy’s 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility. A group of VP-9 P-3s Five-year-old Caroline Law grips her father’s hand following his return to Marine Corps Base Hawaii supported 5th Fleet maritime operations in Operation from a seven-month deployment to Afghanistan on Dec. 7. After replacing 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Iraqi Freedom from Isa Air Base in Bahrain. From their Regiment, in Helmand province’s Nawa district last May, 3/3 supported Regimental Combat Teams 1 hub at Kadena Air Base, the rest of the unit detached and 7 as part of counterinsurgency operations during Operation Enduring Freedom. The battalion’s throughout the 7th Fleet AOR, working with a variety of operations varied from securing elections and ensuring school openings to more traditional combat coalition partners including Guam, Indonesia, Malaysia, operations such as security patrols and clearing danger areas, said Maj. Jay Garcia, executive the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea and Thailand. officer, 3/3, of Honolulu. The return of “America’s Battalion” brought 925 Marines back to Hawaii. Lance Cpl. Reece E. Lodder/ Marine Corps Base Hawaii Lance Cpl. Reece E. Lodder/ Marine Corps Base Hawaii