February 8, 2013 Since 1957 Vol. 57 Issue 05 ‘First Team’ welcomes new ITX commander

CPL. WILLIAM J. JACKSON

CPL. SARAH DIETZ 3/4 finishes out first ITX Lt. Col. Seth E. Yost shakes hands with Lt. Col. David P.Bradney during 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment’s Cpl. William J. Jackson National Police to conduct battalion stability and change of command ceremony Jan. 31. Combat Correspondent counter-insurgency operations against the enemy, known as Jaysh Al Fatwah. Cpl. Sarah Dietz Squad leaders and team leaders with Company L, At 6:30 a.m. the following day, Co. L was staged. Combat Correspondent 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, received their The squad leaders ensured each Marine in the squad mission brief Sunday night. They had submerged was properly geared for the patrol. 1st Lt. Michael Lt. Col. Seth E. Yost took command of 1st Battalion, themselves into their training mission and prepped Dooley, platoon commander, Co. L, 3/4, introduced 7th Marine Regiment, from Lt. Col. David P. Bradney Jan. for the oncoming patrol during their stabilization the ANP to the squad leaders. 31, during the unit’s change of command ceremony at week of the Integrated Training Exercise. Even though specific times are set for a mission, Lance Cpl. Torrey L. Gray Field. The facility was no longer Range 215 and Marines have to stay vigilant for the threats around “As a leader, you’re not going to go one step further California ceased to exist. The Marines of the them. than what your Marines are willing to carry you,” Bradney “Thundering Third” found themselves in the Al Every plan needs a back up because something will said. “ I’ve always believed that, but it was never more true Dakhli Province of Azanistan. They would be leav- fail, explained Cpl. Kyle Jackson, squad leader, 3/4. over these last 21, almost 22 months. These Marines are ing Combat Outpost 3 the following morning with a Indirect fire hit COP 3 without warning in the absolute professionals in every sense of the word. There group of support personnel acting as Afghan See ITX page A6 was never a time when they were tasked that I was in doubt they would complete that task.” The battalion lined up in their Service Alpha uniforms and presented M-16 service rifles to honor the outgoing Lt. Gen. Toolan visits ITX commander and to welcome the new. The field was also guarded by a few armed Marines with combat gear, to Lt. Gen. John A. Toolan, Commanding General, I ensure the ceremony would go smoothly. Marine Expeditionary Force, came to the Combat Center “They are, hands down, the finest Marines that I have Feb. 4 to obeserve Marine Aircraft Group 13 and 2nd served alongside in my career,” Bradney said. “They expe- Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, participating in the rienced extreme hardships, the kind of hardships you only Integrated Training Exercise. Toolan visited mutiple experience during combat: the loss of a brother, witness- ranges while aboard the Combat Center. He took time out ing the maiming and wounding of a brother. They did this of his schdule to talk with Marines and ask them about everyday without complaint.” their experience with the Combat Center’s newest pre- When Bradney talked about his Marines, he emphasized deployment training program. how proud he was of them and explained to Yost the impact the ‘First Team’ Marines will have on his career. “I will tell you that the Marines will carry you, but just be cautious, because when they do, they have a tendency to gain momentum, so you’ll probably have to hold on,” he [Top] Lt. Gen. John A. Toolan speaks with Lt. Col. added. Kevin Murray, commanding officer, Marine Unmanned During his turn to speak at the ceremony, Yost took the Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1, and Lt. Col. John microphone and credited the success of the battalion’s last deployment to Bradney. Thurman, commanding officer, Marine Unmanned “This is a strong battalion,” Yost said to Bradney. “It’s Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3, about the capabilities of one of the finest I’ve seen and it’s a testament to your lead- the RQ-21 Integrator Unmanned Aerial Vehicle. ership and commitment to those men. Thank you for turn- [Bottom] Toolan speaks to Cpl. Brent Berven, squad ing over this battalion.” leader, Company E, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Yost wrapped up the ceremony with a message to the Regiment during his visit to the Combat Center Marines of his new battalion, “I’m honored to stand ranges to observe the Integrated Training Exercise. PHOTOS BY LANCE CPL. LAUREN KURKIMILIS beside you and I look forward to serving with you as we write the next chapter in our history together.” Recycling program helps Combat Center, environment How service members can Scams fight for security at home

Stuart F. Delery fraud can be prevented. They have joined Department of Justice forces with federal and state prosecutors – as well as the JAG Corps – to identify scammers When service members board the plane and bring more cases against them. to return to the United States from deploy- The Department of Justice is committed ment overseas, their family and friends are to using all of the tools available to hold these not the only ones waiting for them. Scam swindlers responsible. The best way to fight artists are also busy setting up store fronts, them is to deprive them of customers. phone lines, and websites specifically target- Service members of each military branch ing service members. have informed the department about their These consumer predators know that experiences, and they are dedicated to getting service members have to deal with unique victims’ messages out. pressures, such as spending extended periods If you have been the victim of a scam, you KELLY O’SULLIVAN of time abroad, moving to different cities are encouraged to come forward and complain. Elton Munoz, left, LeRoy Edick and James Kitchak of the Qualified Recycling multiple times, and being held to a higher So often, financial fraud goes unreported Program Residential Commercial Recycling Section process cardboard for baling at standard for debt repayment under the because victims feel embarrassed or foolish, QRP’s commercial-industrial lot on Rifle Range Road. Each bale weighs between Uniform Code of Military Justice. In addi- but only when you complain is it possible for 1,500 and 1,700 pounds. tion, service members are known for having a you to get the help you need. When we know steady income and trying to do what is best there is a problem, the Department of Justice Kelly O’Sullivan rounds to collect garbage American recycling vendors. for their families. and their law enforcement partners will work Public Affairs from 1,720 family housing The Residential The Department of Justice is working to stop it. Consult your military installation Specialist units and more than 300 Commercial Recycling hard to protect consumers in the military, legal assistance office or your State Attorney Combat Center offices offices aboard the installa- Section compacts items like working with the Civil Division’s Consumer General — and log your complaint at and households generate an tion, QRP crews also pick cardboard and plastics into Protection Branch, who has made fighting www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov or at average of eight tons of up everything from office 1,500- to 1,700-pound bun- fraud aimed at service members and veterans www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/. recyclables every week, but paper, cardboard, plastic, dles for easy transport to a top priority. The department has also been With your help, the Department of Justice you won’t see it piling up glass and aluminum cans to vendors, while the Industrial working externally with other agencies, such can continue to ramp up their fight against anywhere for too long, old furniture and appliances, Recycling Operations as the Departments of Defense and Veterans those who prey on the financial well-being of thanks to the Qualified Manager Patrick Mills said. Section processes household Affairs, to identify potential fraud earlier and service members and their families, and leave Recycling Program’s resi- Those items are taken to the appliances that are no collaborate with the Consumer Financial them free to focus on your invaluable work dential-commercial and commercial-industrial lot on longer usable and puts Protection Bureau’s Office of Service mem- protecting the Nation. industrial recycling sections. Rifle Range Road, where ber Affairs, led by Holly Petraeus, engaging in During their weekly they’re processed for sale to See RECYCLE page A6 a dialogue with military leadership about See SCAMS page A2 A2 FEBRUARY 8, 2013 OBSERVATION Post

Visit the official THINGS KNOW MCAGCC TO facebook page at http://www.facebook. com/thecombatcenter Maximizing military deductions

Deductions on Marine Corps expenses may be taken on certain expenses when itemiz- ing during tax filing. Itemizing is when the amount of money you plan to deduct is SUDOKU 2803-D greater than the standard deduction, currently $5,950. Marines do not qualify for these deductions if they do not exceed the standard amount. Marines itemizing may deduct:

-Two haircuts per month: the Marine Corps Order requires only two haircuts per month, although one per week may be required at a battalion level. The mandatory expense thus counts at only two per month. -Camouflage uniforms for officers: Officers are required to buy their uniforms, unlike enlisted Marines who are issued them. -Medical Expenses: Deducted for 7.5% of unreimbursed medical expenses. This does not include unnecessary medical procedures.

See answers on page A8 Tips on how to avoid scams PUZZLE FOR MS. CLAMPETT SCAM, from A1

„ Be wary of up-front fees.

— The Sales Pitch: “I can help you access benefits, get a good rate on a loan, and make a great investment. All you need to do is pay me an up-front fee.”

— Defense: The military offers legal assistance, interest free emergency loans, and financial planning tools. Ask your military installation offices for details.

„ Always find out what the total price is.

— The Sales Pitch: “I’ll sell you this car, refrigerator, or any- thing else you want. Just give me a little bit of money every installment.”

— The Defense: Salespeople can offer misleading information about how much something really costs once all the payments and fees are added up. If the total price is too high, take your business elsewhere. ACROSS 42.Tapered off green) vaccine 1. Take off, as a hat 44.Crude dude 6. Big galoot 37.Suffix with hard or „ Don’t trust promises about the future. 5. Rum-soaked cakes 45.Fact fudger 7. Mild and pleasant soft 10."GoodFellas" group 46.Slangy denial 8. Woody's boy 40.In shape — 13.Home furnishings 48.Lance Armstrong's 9. Surgical probe 43.Wrapped up The Sales Pitch: “Just buy the car with this higher interest chain transport 10.Paris underground 47.Fuel for a 69- Across rate, and I’ll call you later once I get the lower rate interest for you.” 14.Dizzying designs 50.Curtis of cosmetics 11.Many a John 49.Connecting wd. 15.Wall Street pessimist 53.Exec's note Wayne flick 50.Book after Daniel — 16.She married Prince 54.Brunch selection 12 Thin nails 51.Make corrections to The Defense: Make sure that everyone agrees to the final Rainier 56.Like Willie Nelson's 15.Joe Six-pack's 52.AWOL part terms of a deal before you hand over any money. 18.Kett of comics voice overhang 53.Mobster Lansky 19.Filled to the gills 61.Navy commando 17.Shorten to fit, 55.__ Gigio (old TV 20.Crumbled to dust 62.Bee secretion perhaps mouse) „ Find out who you are dealing with. 22 Far from certain 65.Covetous feeling 21.Dull as dishwater 57.Prefix with dynamic 25.Diamond flubs 66."Carmen" or "Aida" 23.Bleachers creatures 58. Plod through the — 26.__ lobe (brain part) 67.Wander about 24.On fire, in mud The Sales Pitch: “I’m a veteran of the armed forces. 30.Wild guess 68.Gator tail? restaurant lingo 59.Apple application, Sign up with my program to make sure that your family has 31.Leslie Caron role 69.Tottenham truck 26.Took to the air once 32.GOP elephant 70 Mean dude 27.Longtime cohort of 60.Old __, CT everything they need while deployed overseas.” creator Thomas Philbin 63.Posting at JFK 34.Downstairs, to a salt DOWN 28.Actor Ken or Lena 64.Install, as carpeting — The Defense: Ask your base community-service office 38."Iliad," for one 1. Likes, hippie-style 29.Priggish 39.Like some bombs 2. umbo veggie 30.Disco flasher about the company or individual. You can also contact the and cards 3. Heroic deed 33.__ Paulo, Brazil Better Business Bureau. 41.Actress __ Flynn 4. Meet head-on 35.Not of the cloth Boyle 5. __ choy (Chinese 36.Like the Sabin

Observation Post OFF-LIMITS Commanding General - Maj. Gen. David H. Berger Correspondents ESTABLISHMENTS Public Affairs Officer - Capt. Nick Mannweiler Cpl. William J. Jackson Deputy Public Affairs Officer - 1st Lt. Sin Y. Kook Cpl. Sarah Dietz MCIWest off-limits establishments guid- Local off-limits guidance prohibits service Public Affairs Chief - Gunnery Sgt. Leo A. Salinas Lance Cpl. Lauren Kurkimilis ance prohibits service members from members from patronizing the following Press Chief - Cpl. Ali Azimi patronizing the following locations. This locations. Editor/Layout, Design - Cpl.D.J.Wu order applies to all military personnel. In Twentynine Palms: The Observation Post is published by Hi-Desert Publishing, a private firm in no way connect- In Oceanside: - Adobe Smoke Shop, 6441 Adobe Rd. ed with the Department of Defense or the United States Marine Corps, under exclusive writ- - Angelo’s Kars, 222 S. Coast Hwy, - STC Smoke Shop, 6001 Adobe Rd. ten contract with the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. This commercial enterprise Oceanside, Calif., 92054 - K Smoke Shop, 5865A Adobe Rd. newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of the - Angelo’s Kars, 226 S. Coast Hwy, Observation Post are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the United States Oceanside, Calif., 92054 In Yucca Valley: government, the DOD, or the United States Marine Corps. The appearance of advertising in - Yucca Tobacco Mart, 57602 29 Palms Hwy. this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the In San Diego: DOD or Hi-Desert Publishing of the services advertised. - Club Mustang, 2200 University Ave. - Puff ’s Tobacco Mart, 57063 29 Palms Hwy. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or - Club San Diego, 3955 Fourth St. - Get It On Shoppe, 3219 Mission Blvd. In Palm Springs: patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, - Village Pub, 266 S. Palm Canyon Dr. physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user - Main Street Motel, 3494 Main St. or patron. Editorial content is prepared by the Public Affairs Office, MCAGCC, - Vulcan Baths, 805 W. Cedar St. Twentynine Palms, Calif. 92278. All photos, unless otherwise indicated are Official USMC In National City: For the complete orders, but not off-limits, Photos. Questions can be directed to the Public Affairs Office, located in building 1417, - Dream Crystal, 15366 Highland Ave. during normal working hours at 830-6213 or FAX 830-5474. The Observation Post is made check out the Combat Center’s official website with 60 percent recycled paper. - Sports Auto Sales, 1112 National City Blvd. at http://www.29palms.marines.mil OBSERVATION Post FEBRUARY 8, 2013 A 3

Brian Lowell, Mass. — tank commander, 1st Tanks, 24 Alloway > I grew up in Lowell, Mass. > I’m a New England Patriots fan, absolutely. They didn’t get into the Super Bowl this year. I was devastated. I mean they’ve got three Super Bowls so I guess you can’t expect too much more. > There are definitely some rivalries inside my company. I defend Tom Brady. He’s the greatest quarterback ever. > I hate the Baltimore Ravens. I was disappointed about how the ALLOWAY HAS SERVED SIX Super Bowl turned out. My platoon tank commander is from New YEARS IN THE CORPS. Jersey so he’s a Ravens fan. Me and him go at it. DURING HIS TIME AS A > The Colts and anything having to do with the Manning brothers, I don’t ever want to talk about it. It turns into a long conversation. TANKER, HE HAS FILLED > My tattoos are original pieces. I just let the artist go with it. THREE OF THE FOUR > The one that hurt the most is probably the one that is on my POSITIONS IN THE CREW chest. It’s the Battle of Belleau Wood painting. > I like to read. I’m a big history buff, especially military history. I’ve always been like that. I’m a history buff in general but military history grabs my interest. > I joined the Marine Corps out of high school. At the time I did not see myself doing another four years of school. I wanted to do something notable. I didn’t want to go into the workforce and get stuck there. > As a tank commander, I’m pretty much in charge of the tank itself. I have three crewmen directly beneath me. I am in charge of employing that tank, fires for that tank, knowing when and when not to engage enemy targets. > I didn’t necessarily want tanks when I joined. I signed up for combat service support which was either Assault Amphibian Vehicle crewman or tank crewman. I guess by my swim qualifications in boot camp I became a tanker. > I know for a fact that my parents are extremely proud. As far as them being concerned about me being a tanker, I’m in a 70-ton vehicle that’s fully armored. > Pretty much nothing can get through a tank. > I’m pretty safe. > I’ve done everything except be a loader for a tank. When I started I was a driver. > As a driver, you’re the most junior guy. You’re getting an earful all the time. It’s all worth it though. I look back on it now and feel like you have to go through it. If you don’t, you don’t really earn your stripes. > It’s definitely possible to flip a tank. I’ve never done it personally, but when I was a new driver, we were at Range 500 shooting the gunnery and I launched my tank up and over the top of this hold down and down the other side. I slammed the tank and my tank commander was not too happy. > I love the job. The awesome firepower. We can reach out and touch the enemy before they know we are coming. > When I reenlisted I was deployed. So at the time I was doing what I wanted to do and it seemed like the right decision. > People I see on deployment are thrilled to see the tanks. Everybody is interested in tanks, from civilians to officers all the way up. People want to do reenlistments in tanks, they want to know the capabilities. > The ability to branch out and meet different people. I’ve met people from all over the United States and different countries. > In country, when we’d have an operational pause, we’d have people come up to the tanks. Even people from other countries, like the Georgians, who had no idea how to speak the language would just come up to the tanks and make gestures towards it, take out their cameras. > The kids are pretty fearless over there. They’ll try to get close to the tanks. They’re really not that scared of tanks. > I’m looking into what life would be like after the Marine Corps. If I did decide to get out I would definitely take what I’ve learned here and put it to good use.

Interviewed by Cpl. Ali Azimi, February 4, 2013

The Combat Center has its own YouTube channel Find it at http://www.youtube.com/ user/Combat CenterPAO.

Visit the official MCAGCC facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/the combatcenter A4 FEBRUARY 8, 2013 OBSERVATION Post 13th MEU trains with Japanese forces

Story and photo by Sgt. Christopher O’Quin 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit

Members of the Japan Ground Self Defense Force left the Land of the Rising Sun for the Golden State in mid-January 2013, to train with Marines and Sailors from 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, for Exercise Iron Fist 2013. From Jan. 27 to Feb. 3 both forces took their skills to the Combat Center for the second week of the exercise. This enabled both forces to practice their tactics, learn from each other and take advantage of the expansive ranges in the Mojave Desert. “What we do these [exercises] for, is to build relationships both at the staff level …but also down at the individual Marine, sailor and soldier level,” said Capt. Brian J. Marthiljohni, company commander, Company B, 1/4. “When I look at their soldiers and my Marines, they are every bit as proficient in the tactics that they do, just as mine are at theirs.” The Marines of Co. B rehearsed several mission sets, rang- Pfc. Austin Jasper-Martinez, infantry automatic rifle gunner, Company B, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, provides ing in scale from the platoon level and a few dozen Marines, suppressive fire during company-sized assault training, as part of Exercise Iron Fist 2013 at the Combat Center Jan. to company plus-sized maneuvers of hundreds, with artillery 31. The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit partnered with soldiers from the Japan Ground Self Defense Force for three and armored vehicles. Both the Marines and JGSDF took weeks of bi-lateral training, improving inter-operability and crisis response readiness. turns assaulting three different ranges. Numerous trench sys- tems, hills, wadis, and bunkers at each place gave the platoons different opportunities to employ their troops. “I’ve gotten to know my team quite a bit more being out here,” said Lance Cpl. David M. Bray III, a Coeur d’Alene, Id., native, and fire team leader with Co. B, 1/4. “Getting to run my

What we do these [exercises] for, is to build rela- tionships both at the staff level …but also down at the individual Marine, sailor and soldier level.” – Capt. Brian J. Marthiljohni

team and getting a feel for what they know really helps me to determine what I need to work with them as far as proficien- cies and deficiencies go. The [JGSDF’s] training has opened my eyes to seeing how they go through the same ranges we go through. The training here will help me prepare mentally for future exercises with other militaries on deployment.” “Each day, the Marines and members of the JGSDF rehearsed assault drills, observed each other and corrected their own deficiencies. Some troops provided support by fire with machineguns and mortars, enabling their brothers in arms to maneuver to assault. Others used heavy weapons such as the HOWA-87 Recoilless Rifle and the shoulder-launched multipurpose assault weapon to aid in clearing objectives. The JGSDF benefited from the training in numerous ways, from the opportunities to the combat doctrine shared between warriors. “Here we could have various training such as mortars and live-fire during the day and night, and that was very benefi- cial,” said 1st Lt. Yutaka Sato, and Sasebo, Japan, native, oper- ations officer, 1st Company, Western Army Infantry Regiment, Japan Ground Self Defense Force. “The ranges are smaller in Japan so this enabled our soldiers to do more drills and get more practice. We were thoroughly impressed with the Marines combining maneuvering and firing.” Both groups ended the week with a mechanized assault on a fixed enemy position at Emerson Lake. The JGSDF rode in 7-Ton trucks while the Marines rode in Assault Amphibious Vehicle. Tanks, mortars, artillery and other combined arms offered a glimpse of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force to the JGSDF. “In the final exercise, it was great that we could see tanks and the AAVs join us on the range,” added Sato. “We nor- mally couldn’t have so many elements attacking these objec- tives at the same time during training. I really hope we can do this more in the future.” In the coming weeks, 1/4 and the JGSDF will train off the California coast together. The training they have done here will serve as a foundation for the final week of the exercise on San Clemente Island. There, they will bring together their unique abilities for one final demonstration of bilateral coop- eration and amphibious capabilities. OBSERVATION Post FEBRUARY 8, 2013 A 5

Ship toShore A hospital corpsman with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, treats a simulated civilian casualty at Range 220 Tues. 2/4 is at the conclusion of ITX and is New exercise preps 2/4 for MEU duty scheduled to begin a Special Operations Training Group package.

Story and photo by 1st Lt. Sin Y. Kook as those tasked to a MEU. Training in stability opera- “It’s important to have a solid foundation,” said Capt. Deputy Public Affairs Officer tions is still incorporated for units bound for Operation Travis W. Bowden, company commander. “ITX is a good Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and others that first exposure and it’s going to set us up well for a com- With the last training day approaching in the first run- might be asked to conduct such operations. This train- pany with the MEU deployment and the type of tasks that ning of the Integrated Training Exercise, Fox Company, ing includes humanitarian assistance packages, non- will be assigned.” 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, started their Company combatant evacuation operations and providing securi- Stability Operations / Humanitarian Assistance training ty to populated areas. See MEU page A6 package Tuesday at the Combat Center’s Range 220. The company provided security and humanitarian assistance to a village in the fictional land of Azanistan “Today we’re running a non-combatant evacuation Role player relives NEO exercise operation,” said Cpl. Benjamin Miller, machine gun sec- tion leader. “We’re passing out food, water, medical sup- plies and medical treatment to the town and the refugees, Journalist’s first-hand account of humanitarian mission with Marines to whoever needs it.” Miller, 24, native of Los Angeles, has been deployed to Song Hee Kim lance journalist, getting lost. Iraq, Afghanistan and the Philippines. His battalion is Seoul International It was not a good morning. I only had a few hours at the scheduled to deploy as the battalion landing team of a compound. I was frustrated and crabby. AL DAKHLI PROVINCE, Azanistan – “Corporal,” As I waved my press badge, I told the Marines at the Marine Expeditionary Unit in late spring. It will mark the Marine said. Miller’s fourth deployment as a Marine, two of which will front gate in my horrible English accent, “I’m Sung Hee I glared at him for a few seconds, knowing that wasn’t Kim with Seoul International. I’ve come to write about the have been on a MEU. his first name. “This training is a lot more focused for the MEU as U.N. helping out Azanistan.” “No, really, what’s your first name?”, I asked. I also wanted to see if bringing in the Marines was compared to my last MEU training,” said Miller. “It gets “Corporal,” he said again. the Marines in the mindset of what they’re going to do actually helping. I arrived here a little past 9 a.m. and immediately the After pushing by a handful of locals, the Marines gave out there on the MEU.” day started off bad for me. I rushed my way there, know- The 28-day ITX focuses on the tactical application of the lowest ranking Marine, P-F-C Brian Holbert, to escort ing the U.S. Marines are notorious for wanting to be me and the other reporters. combined-arms maneuver warfare during global contin- places on time. See EYES page A6 gency operations, but it includes training events that are So stereotypical, an international female Korean free- relevant to any MAGTF expeditionary operation, such A6 FEBRUARY 8, 2013 OBSERVATION Post

RECYCLE, from A1 MEU,fromA5 EYES,fromA5 But what I did know was that two them out to bid every 30 to 40 days. The Combat Center’s civilians were shot, and a Marine was “Really, nothing goes into the landfill if we have a say unique training ranges and This wasn’t my first rodeo. My edi- down. One had blood gushing out of about it,” Mills said. “Even old wooden pallets can be shred- assessment staff provide tors always pick me for these interna- his arms. The other laid straight ded and sold.” unparalleled opportunities to tional stories. I know military rank down, not moving an inch. The Nothing is too small for Mills’ crews to tackle. For exam- Marines that come here. structure. I know Marines hate being Marine was motionless. ple, cables are removed from old computers and appliances “The training has been called soldiers. And I know Marines The nephew of the one shot was and the copper wiring inside is collected. It adds up quickly great,” said Pfc. Brian Holbert, hate talking to media. The reasons screaming, as he was getting detained — “we send about 700 pounds out a month,” he said. infantryman. “This is the first are endless but the main thing is I by a Marine, “A Marine shot him! I saw Proceeds from commercial and industrial recycling sales, time that we have actually been think they’re afraid of saying some- it! All we wanted was food and water. along with revenue from the sale of items processed at QRP’s able to get training inside a thing stupid. All we wanted was help. Then my Range Sustainment Branch and Hazardous Waste MOUT town of this caliber. Thank goodness there’s no PAO uncle got shot!” Management Section cover the labor and equipment costs Back in Camp Pendleton, we escort. Those guys are annoying. For some reason, I really didn’t associated with each lot, with enough money left over to help work with line tape on the The area that I was in was Fatwan believe him. Why would Marines just make life easier for Combat Center Marines and sailors, and ground to practice room clear- Gul. There was a lack of water shoot the civilians AND a Marine? I their families. ing. That doesn’t compare at all because of the drought, famine broke mean, yes, there’s friendly fire, but Their contributions to quality-of-life projects aboard the to the training here.” in the entire country, and almost no Marines are known for accuracy. I was installation are a great source of pride for QRP’s 51 employ- Support personnel added to government control. The U.N. had a little confused. ees, Mills said. the realism of the scenario by stepped in to help and brought the The Marines quickly closed the “Last year, we gave the base $880,000,” he said. Over the playing the part of local vil- Marines with them. front gate, immediately treated the years, revenues from the three lots have funded such projects lagers, police forces, journalists There were barbed wires separating wounded (possibly dead), and more as construction of the installation’s water park, the enlarge- and representatives from the this big stadium area and Marines barbed wire was being placed from the ment of Dinosaur Park and the purchase of three vans for United Nations and various securing that area inside the compound. front gate to the search area, then again the Single Marine Program. non-governmental organiza- “That’s where we intend to distribute to the intelligence line, then to the sta- This year, Mills said, recycling money will help the Marine tions. food and water. After they have been dium. It ended up being a for-sure way Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center at Bridgeport pur- “It’s kind of a hard transi- searched and through intelligence,” First to lead the civilians where they could chase a similar van for its Single Marine Program. tion from all kinetic, bomb Lieutenant Burton said. He refused to and could not go. QRP also is making capital improvements this year, dropping, large scale exercises give me his first name too. I have to go back. I have a deadline. including the massive shade structure that recently replaced to stability operations,” said What is up with my luck today? The Marines actually did help. an old, damaged one at the commercial-industrial lot. Mills Bowden. “On top of that, deal- The locals that had already been let in The left-leaning international free- said the structure, which was dedicated during a Feb. 1 rib- ing with the NGOs, seem to be very angry. You could have lancer has turned, for now. bon-cutting ceremony, will not only protect people and mate- Department of State, the UN felt the tension brewing that made the Editor’s note: “Role player relives NEO rials from the elements, it also will reduce maintenance costs and other role players, it’s a dif- 80 degree weather feel like 100. exercise” was written in character. The author on equipment by keeping it shaded and dry. ferent dynamic.” Using the translator, Abraham “Sung Hee Kim was played by 1st Lt. Sin Y. Next up is pouring of concrete in strategic areas of all For several of the Marines Bushkazi said, “I have been searched Kook, deputy public affairs office. The story three lots to cut down on dust. with previous deployments THREE times! They said they were was told through the eyes of her character Mills said the men and women of QRP are constantly under their belts, the realistic here to help. Where’s my food? which was participating in the exercise. Kook looking for ways to improve efficiency, save money, raise training sparked memories of Where’s my water? My son hasn’t played the part of a foreign new journalist and recycling revenues and find new markets for their products. past experiences. eaten for TWO days! There are bombs wrote the story to accompany the real life story. “I have some really good people,” he said. “They’re all “I was in an actual riot out in going off outside. I don’t believe stakeholders. They all love what they do.” Iraq,” said Miller. “Today, the them. They treat us like dogs.” Mills encourages everyone who lives and works aboard the role players were trying to push “They didn’t want to go through the Combat Center to do their part simply by making sure that the door down so the rioters intelligence line,” said Lance Cpl. Dodd every piece of white paper, cardboard box, soda can or glass could get in. Those riots were Jackson, native of Fort Myers, Fla. or plastic bottle goes into the blue recycling bin instead of the pretty realistic and brought me More people seemed to have been trash bin at their home or office. back to Iraq.” crowding the front gate. I recognized “It’s important for them to do anything in their means to At the conclusion of their this because the yelling and screaming help us achieve higher outcomes and help the Marines (and training, the Marines of 2/4 escalated. Only about three Marines sailors) we are here to serve,” he said. will begin a Special Operations were guarding the front gate at first. Want to learn more? Training Group package before As the Marines were yelling to get After a simulated shooting, a Marine Marines, sailors, family members, Combat Center employees joining up with the other units more at the front gate, a few got with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 4th and contractors who would like more information on the Qualified assigned to deploy with the through and ran in. Marine Regiment, detains civilian sup- Recycling Program, or who would like to tour one of its three lots 31st MEU later this year. I didn’t know where it came from. port personnel at Range 220 Tues. are invited to call (760) 830-7244.

ITX, from A1 to his right leg from an improvised explosive device. Before his medical evacuation, he handed the squad over early afternoon and the Marines took immediate action. to his best team leader, Cpl. Ryan Castillo. Their patrol was delayed while the other companies con- “Castillo!” Jackson shouted. “You’re taking over!” tinued their patrols through the Al Dakhli Province. “I sit through every meeting,” said Castillo after At 1 p.m., the Marines began their patrol. assuming control of the squad. “If a squad leader goes “We’re going to set up a series of cordons around the down and I can’t take over, the squad (goes down). We town,” said 1st Lt. Robert Christensen, executive officer, have to be pretty in depth in case this happens. We still Co. L, 3/4. “From there, we’re going to locate some of have to set up a cordon on this sector, no matter what.” the key individuals, like the village elder and have a shura Marines, along with their Azani counterparts, con- where hopefully they will give us some sort of informa- ducted biometric scans and tactfully questioned and KELLY O’SULLIVAN tion about what’s going on in town, both good and bad.” searched local nationals. Co. L pushed through the town Bobcat operator Jason Smith loads cardboard into a bin for Shura is Arabic for consultation. Marines and village fending off JAF insurgents while gathering information processing and baling at the Qualified Recycling elders come together to share thoughts, experiences and from local nationals. Program’s commercial-industrial lot on Rifle Range Road. ideas about how to coordinate civilian and military The goal was to restore civil order within the Al Dakhli efforts to improve their district. Province, explained Jackson. Knowing how to speak to and “The one thing I push to my Marines is to be com- interact with the Azani is the beginning of the mission. fortable talking with the [Azanis],” Jackson said. The battalion finished ITX this week as part of their Communication helps build a relationship and bond predeployment training before they deploy to which shows that they’re there to help, he added. Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom During the patrol, Jackson received notional shrapnel later this year. OBSERVATION Post FEBRUARY 8, 2013 A 7 ITX VMA-311

‘Tomcats’ take to the Marine Attack Squadron 311 participated in a month-long Integrated Training Exercise at Camp Wilson, Twentynine Combat Center skies Palms, Calif., Jan. 5 through Feb. 8. They are in preparation for an upcoming deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Story and photos by “They specialize in different parts of the aircraft. You have from Camp Pendleton, Twentynine Palms, or Cherry, it Lance Cpl. Uriel Avendano Marines that specialize working on the airframe itself, you always feels like home.” MCAS Yuma, Ariz. have Marines that specialize with working on the engine and To simulate a deployed environment, continuous opera- control the different aspects of maintenance, including all of tions throughout the exercise put the pilots, the squadron In preparation for an upcoming deployment to the avionics components and communication systems.” and supporting units in a high-paced expeditionary setting Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Getting back to their grassroots in Marine Air Ground that makes communication at all levels crucial. Marine Attack Squadron 311 participated in a month-long Task Force operations, the Tomcats consider the ITX an However, ensuring mission readiness also means the Integrated Training Exercise held at Camp Wilson aboard squadron not only worked in conjunction with many com- Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine mands, but made sure to work on their own basics. Palms, Calif., Jan. 5 through Feb. 8. Ordnance technicians on the flight line practiced each of With Marines from Marine Aircraft Group 13, Marine their roles; going over ammunition loading procedures and Medium Helicopter Squadron 268, Marine Light Attack making sure birds came in and out on schedule. Helicopter Squadron 167 and Marine Wing Support “We have a lot more flights going on here than we nor- Squadron 271 taking part in the exercise, the mindset of mally would back in Yuma, a lot of ordnance being used,” VMA-311 remains that of a squadron readying for a deploy- said Lance Cpl. Miguel Pickett, a VMA-311 ordnance ment on the horizon. technician and a native of Sherwood, Ill. “It's a great “It's important because it puts Marines in an environ- learning experience.” ment that ups the tempo,” said Sgt. Matthew Babcock, Building confidence through mentorship was also a big VMA-311 powerline non-commissioned officer in charge part of the exercise. Those who've deployed as recently as and a native of Hightstown, N.J. “It builds everybody up An ordnance team of five Marines inspect an AV-8B seven months ago take their junior Marines under their a little bit so they can get a taste of what we're actually Harrier and go over each of their roles and procedures experienced wing and supervise. Spreading lessons learned going to do.” on the flight line. and valuable know-how to ensure they fight next to well- Integrated close air support training between Marines trained Marines is one of the many objectives of the pre- on the ground and air helped better prepare communica- deployment ITX for VMA-311. tion, mission objectives, and productivity for future forward opportunity for senior and junior Marines to refine their “I feel pretty confident about going over there and doing deployment operations. The Corps’ first ITX, replacing skills, build some synergy with participating units and take in a good job, not really worried about it,” said Lance Cpl. exercise Enhanced Mojave Viper, provided the Tomcats the training necessary to prepare for an April deployment. Patrick Willis, a VMA-311 avionics technician and a native with a strong, first-hand source of experience of what “It's been awesome working with the units out here. of Concord, Calif. “I've learned that smooth is fast and fast they'll be doing overseas. One of the things you find being in the Marine Corps is smooth. It's an experience where I've actually learned “Our Marines fix, fly and maintain the AV-8B Harrier, any length of time is that Marine units tend to not be too more about the jet and what I can do better.” working 12-14 hours a day,” said Sgt. Maj. David Wilson, much different,” Wilson said. “So that when you go The Yuma-based squadron is slated to deploy from VMA-311 sergeant major and native of Sacramento, Calif. coordinate with your fellow Marines, whether they be MCAS Yuma, Ariz., to Afghanistan later in the year. A8 FEBRUARY 8, 2013 OBSERVATION POST

Did you know? The Liberty Call Hey Combat Center fans – Spread the word! page on B2 now The Combat Center has its own Flickr photo and video has Combat Center streams. Find them at club information http://www.flickr.com/ thecombatcenter. Excursions Enlisted Club Bloodstripes NCO Club Hashmarks 29 SNCO Club Hey Combat Center fans – Spread the word! Combat Center’s The Combat Center has its own Officers’ Club YouTube channel. Find it at http://www.youtube.com/user/ Combat CenterPAO.

Visit the official MCAGCC facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ thecombatcenter

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Visit www.op29online. com or www.29palms.ma rines.mil February 8, 2013 Since 1957 Vol. 57 B SECTION

aughs for Leathernecks

CPL. ALI AZIMI

CPL. ALI AZIMI Comedians bring cheer to Combat Center Cpl. William J. Jackson “Everyone I meet is so unique. (Marines) do Combat Correspondent stuff that people in the real world forget or just don’t think about,” said Kane after his set. Alex Scott and Colin Kane waited for their “Some of the stuff (Marines) do is so serious, so comedy set to begin at the Combat Center’s balancing that with laughs is the best part.” Sunset Cinema. The two comedians fiddled Kane’s set wasn’t for everyone. Regardless, if with their phones waiting for the show to begin. people didn’t laugh he offered them a chance to The lights dimmed. make an exit, although, attracting unwanted The crowd yelled. attention from an insult comic’s set is ill-advised. Alex Scott opened up with his set. “Get out if you didn’t laugh. Just go away. Playing to a crowd of tough guys, especially That was funny,” Colin would say as he stared at Marines, can be daunting. It’s not a normal gig, the audience, probably waiting for someone to but every show needs an opener and the head for the doors. Marines aboard the Combat Center got a self- Although he has no military ties and no mili- described chameleon of comedy with Scott’s tary background experience, he doesn’t need it. blue collar- middle class America routine. His job is to make people laugh to whatever CPL. WILLIAM J. JACKSON “I feed off of the crowd,” Scott said. “I think extent and he excels at it. [Top] Comedian Alex Scott takes the stage during the 2013 that’s why they have me as a host. I’m a good “Honestly it’s not about me. It’s about mak- Leatherneck Comedy and Entertainment Tour Feb. 1, at the Combat judgment of character and I can set the tone. ing you guys laugh,” said Colin. “That’s my job, Center's Sunset Cinema. Today (the Marines) were a joyful and playful make people laugh.” crowd — the best kind of crowd.” His set was raw. As an insult comic, Kane [Left] Marines aboard the Combat Center take a break from their The energy of a wild crowd pushes his aims to be offensive, to cross the line over and duties to listen to a few comedians. Alex Scott and Colin Kane both own performance. over. The results are laughs and a spark of ener- wanted to share a few laughs with the crowd before they moved on “I’m here to give back. I started comedy in the gy from the audience which fuels the very to their next venue. Air Force. I actually got on BET when I was in nature of why he is on stage. the Air Force,” said the former Air Force X-ray “Just seeing (an audience) laugh is really what [Above] Colin Kane, a seasoned insult comic, pauses after a joke technician. “You all make it so I can be free to do it comes down to. I mean my job is to go up during the 2013 Leatherneck Comedy and Entertainment Tour Feb. what I do.” there and make you laugh for a while,” Kane 1, at the Combat Center's Sunset Cinema. Kane plans to do more Just like many have done before, Scott and said. “I’ve always been a real guy. I’m an insult comedy shows for service members in the future. Kane came to the Combat Center because comic so I have messed up ideas, I’m a messed they wanted to give back for the service mem- up guy and I just do it.” [Below] Colin Kane picks apart the crowd with his insult driven comedy bers’ sacrifices. Their hopes were to get them The two comedians parted ways after the set stylings. Kane was one of three acts performing for Marines. out of the daily grind and give them a chance but both plan to continue to put shows togeth- to relax and laugh for a while. er to rally the troops.

Honestly it’s not about me. It’s about making you guys laugh. That’s my job, “make people laugh.” – Colin Kane

CPL. ALI AZIMI B2 FEBRUARY 8, 2013 OBSERVATION Post Liberty Call

Combat Center Clubs Excursions Enlisted Club Talented cast squandered in Monday: Margarita Mondays Thursday: Rockin’ Karaoke 7-10 p.m. botched Big Apple crime thriller Friday: Social hour with food, 5 - 7 p.m. followed by DJ Gjettblaque, 8 - 11 p.m., Ladies Night Saturday: Variety Night, DJ Gjettblaque 8 - 11 p.m.

Bloodstripes NCO Club Monday: Margarita Mondays Thursday: Warrior Night 4:30 - 9 p.m. Friday: Karaoke Night 6 - 9 p.m.

Hashmarks 29 SNCO Club Friday: Steak Night, 4:30 - 8 p.m. Monday-Friday: All-hands lunch from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Monday: All-hands steak night, 4:30 - 8 p.m.

Combat Center Officers’ Club Monday: Steak night, 5 - 7:30 p.m. Monday-Friday: All-hands lunch, from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Thursday: Taco Night, 5 - 7 p.m. For complete calendars visit http://www.mccs29palms.com.

Local Events

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Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Russel Crowe & disjointed plot that perhaps made more sense to him when For more information call 316-4151 Catherine Zeta-Jones he saw the script than it does as a finished product. or visit http://www.theatre29.org Directed by Allen Hughes Zeta-Jones looks glamorous as all get-out, but she and her Rated PG-13, 109 min. character both seem stranded out of time, in movie that feels, Lower Desert looks and sounds like it’s pouting that it can’t be a smoldering Something’s rotten in the core of the Big Apple, and 1940s pulp detective drama, instead of a modern-day crime Keith Sweat Mark Wahlberg, Russell Crowe and Catherine Zeta-Jones thriller that needs to lure audiences into multiplexes alongside American R&B singer-songwriter performs are all tangled up in the festering mess of politics, crime and screens offering far more bang for the buck. When: 8 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 14 Where: Spotlight 29 Casino Resort corruption. 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Find them at For more information call 800-827-2946 or visit http://www.flickr.com/thecombatceter. http://www.fantasyspringsresort.com. Prefer your news Sunset Cinema from the web? Friday, February 8 6 p.m. – Jack Reacher, Rated PG-13 9 p.m. – Guilt Trip, Rated PG-13 Midnight – Django Unchained, Rated R Saturday, February 9 10:30 a.m. – Free Matinee Frankenweenie, Rated PG 12:30 p.m. – Parental Guidance, Rated PG 3 p.m. – The Hobbit 3D, Rated PG-13 6 p.m. – Silver Linings Playbook, Rated R 9 p.m. – This is 40, Rated R MIdnight – Texas Chainsaw, Rated R Sunday, February 10 12:30 p.m. – Parental Guidance, Rated PG-13 3 p.m. – Jack Reacher, Rated-13 Visit 6 p.m. – The Hobbit 3D, Rated PG-13 29palms.usmc.mil 9 p.m. – Texas Chainsaw, Rated R or Monday, February 11 HiDesertStar.com/ 7 p.m. – Les Miserables, Rated PG-13 Observation_post/ Tuesday, February 12 7 p.m. – Texas Chainsaw 3D, Rated R Wednesday, February 13 7 p.m. – The Hobbit, Rated PG-13 Thursday, February 14 5:30 p.m. – Cirque du Solei, Rated PG 8:30 p.m. – Jack Reacher, Rated R Morongo Basin Alcoholics Anonymous Hotline: 760-366-1183 OBSERVATION Post FEBRUARY 8, 2013 B 6 Super Bowl field edition

[Above] Lance Cpl. Randy Mejia (left), Marines and sailors with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, take a night off and Pfc. Steven Lewis (right), mortar- from the Integrated Training Exercise to kick back and watch Super Bowl man, Weapons Co., 3rd Battalion, 4th XLVII Feb. 3. The battalion offered Marines a chance to impersonate senior Marine Regiment, fight for a football leaders, tell jokes and enjoy a steak dinner before the Super Bowl kickoff. Feb. 3, at Range 215’s Combat Outpost 3 before Super Bowl XLVII. 3/4 brought the whole battalion together for the night to enjoy a break from the Integrated Training Exercise.

[Middle] Marines and sailors with 3/4 cheer as they watch Super Bowl XLVII.

[Far left] Lance Cpl. Randy Mejia tosses a football Feb. 3, at Range 215’s Combat PHOTOS BY CPL. WILLIAM J. JACKSON Outpost 3 during Super Bowl XLVII.