San Diego Echo recruits have celebrates 2010 final go - round with Fleet Week pugil sticks

Pg. 4 Pg. 8 HONOR

MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO AND THE WESTERN RECRUITING REGION

Vol. 70 – No. 28 – E FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2010 Amos confirmed as Corps’ 35th Commandant by Donna Miles the critical role of our expedi- lawmakers he personally opposes ever, to ensure that whatever is best Marines in decades. American Forces Press Service tionary forces.” repeal of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t decided regarding the law, he “Our Marines have never been In the biggest headline- Tell” law that prohibits gays and would ensure that it is enforced. better trained, or better led,” he WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2010 – making comments during the lesbians from openly serving in Amos credited Conway with said. “They are simply magnifi- The Senate yesterday confirmed hearing, Amos told questioning the military. He vowed, how- producing what he said are the cent.” Gen. James F. Amos as the 35th Marine Corps commandant, to replace retiring Gen. James T. Conway who has served in the post since November 2006. The voice vote makes Amos the first career aviation to hold the top Marine post. He is slated to be sworn at an Oct. 22 ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington, officials reported. The Senate’s confirmation vote makes Amos, who has served as assistant commandant since July 2008, a member of the Joint Chiefs of . The Senate yesterday also con- firmed Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Joseph Dunford, commander of I Marine Expeditionary Force, to serve as Amos’ deputy. During his Sept. 21 confir- mation hearing, Amos vowed to make winning the war in his top priority. Amos added that he’ll be forth- right in assessing the Marine Corps’ needs. “I am keenly aware of the chal- lenges our nation faces today, and Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps James F. Amos, spoke during the Iwo Jima Memorial Wreath Laying ceremony likely will face in the future,” he held aboard the USS Intrepid in New York City, May 22, last year. Congress confirmed Amos as the new Commandant of the Marine told the Senate Armed Services Corps Sept. 30. He will be sworn in during an October 22 ceremony at Marine Barracks, Washingon, D.C. Committee. “And, I understand U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Andrew J. Carlson US Navy celebrates 235 years protecting America by Lance Cpl. Eric Quintanilla The US Navy celebrated its 235th birthday at cutting the cake is used to bring the sailors together Chevron staff Duncan Hall on Wednesday with approximately 50 and show they are all part of the same team. guests. “The ceremony honors our tradition, our past and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Elmo R. Zum- The birthday cake was decorated with the Navy’s celebrates our future,” said Dory, assistant chief of walt officially recognized Oct. 13, 1775, as the birth traditional colors, blue and gold with the Navy staff for religious ministries. date of the Navy in 1972. emblem in the center and the words “Celebrating 235 After the ceremony, a special lunch was served to years of Service” surrounding it. all military members, civilians, guests and family The Chief of Naval Operations’ annual Navy members present. birthday message was read aloud to the crew by Chief On Oct. 13, 1775, the Continental Congress estab- Petty Officer Patrick Mondragon, command CPO for lished the Continental Navy. They authorized the pro- religious ministries and dental detachment MCRD. curement, fitting out, manning and dispatch of two After the message was read, the cake was cut by Navy armed vessels to cruise in search of munitions ships Capt. Mike Dory and Seaman Apprentice Jeffery supplying the British Army in the United States. Mounts, the most senior and junior sailors present In 1794, five years after the ratification of the Con- at the ceremony. stitution of the United States, Congress ordered the “I was honored to be a part of Navy tradition,” construction and manning of six frigates: USS Con- said Mounts, a 20-year-old hospital corpsman with stitution, USS President, USS United States, USS Con- Branch Medical Clinic. “Ceremonies like this are gress, USS Chesapeake, and USS Constellation. The important because they keep traditions going and USS Constitution launched into the Harbor you get a glimpse of the history we tend to forget.” on Oct. 21, 1797. It is still a commissioned U.S. Navy Navy Capt. Mike Dory, assistant chief of staff for As the youngest sailor, Mounts, was presented vessel and is the last remaining frigate of the original religious ministries, left, presents Seaman Apprentice with the first piece of cake by Dory and took the tra- six. Jeffery Mounts, hospital corpsman with the Branch ditional first bite of the cake. “We, as Navy, are very grateful that we are able Medical Clinic, with the first piece of the Navy birth- “Traditions are key to us preserving our heritage,” to celebrate our birthday here at MCRD,” said Mon- day cake at Duncan Hall, here Oct. 13. In Navy tradi- said Mondragon. “Some of our proudest moments dragon. “I would like to thank all the Marines who tion, the youngest and oldest sailor present are given are for us to celebrate our history.” helped put this together. Most sailors say the best the first slices of cake.Lance Cpl. Eric Quintanilla/Chevron The tradition of the youngest and oldest sailor tours they’ve had are with the Marines.” 2 CHEVRON ~ NEWS AND COMMENTARY ~ OCTOBER 15, 2010 October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month by Stacey Willis treatment of family violence through a coordinated community Make a Difference Day Victim Advocate response. The program is committed to enhancing the qual- ity of life for military families by offering classes, workshops, Honor the women in your life at October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. and seminars, while preserving Marine Corps values through the MCRD Make a Difference Day Domestic violence is an issue that transcends across ethnic, accountability, rehabilitation and education. The quality of life Walk & Wellness Expo tomorrow socio-economic, and racial lines. It even transcends into our programs offered by FAP to support service members and their from 8 a.m. to noon. Raise aware- military community. Both men and women can be victims of families include stress and anger management, family violence ness for breast cancer and domestic abuse. Domestic violence can deter healthy family function- and enhancing personal relationships. FAP also offers a group, violence prevention. ing and have a negative impact on child development and can Help End Abusive Relationships Today, that assists individuals This is a free event, open to all ultimately affect military readiness. This year’s theme is “Speak develop healthy relationships. authorized patrons and their guests. Out Against Domestic Violence.” Make your voice heard, talk The Marine Corps understands the difficulty in reporting Check in begins at 8 a.m. on the to your Victim Advocate”. With this campaign, we are focus- abuse. Many times, victims are fearful of reporting abuse out of Exchange Mall. The 1.5 mile circuit ing on making sure a victim knows how a Victim Advocate can fear of the impact it may have on the Marine’s career. Therefore, of the installation kicks off at 9. The help and options that are available if someone is in a domestic the Marine Corps has two reporting options for enlisted victims event is followed by the Wellness violence situation. This is a good time for all of us to reflect on of domestic violence and their adult dependents; restricted and Expo on the Exchange Mall featur- the long lasting effects that domestic violence leaves on our com- unrestricted Reporting. Please contact a Victim Advocate for ing local breast cancer and domestic munity and what each of us can do to prevent it. further information. violence organizations, activities, The Department of Defense defines domestic violence as any Please join us for the 2010 Make a Difference Event being food and music. act, whether of omission or commission, that is physically, emo- held tomorrow aboard MCRD! This day honors those who are Participants can register online tionally, sexually and/or psychologically harmful and intended affected by domestic violence and breast cancer. The event will at mccsmcrd.com. For information, to achieve power and control over the victim. Domestic violence include a memorial walk followed by a Wellness Expo on the contact MCRD Health Promotions includes emotional abuse such as control of money and threats Exchange Mall. It will feature local domestic violence and breast Coordinator Andrea Callahan at of violence. Physical abuse includes, but not limited to, punch- cancer awareness organizations, activities, food, music and a (619) 524-8913. ing, kicking, slapping and strangulation. It can also include raffle. Don’t forget to wear pink and purple to commemorate the sexual abuse of a spouse. Some stressors that can complicate the day. The event will feature food, music, activities and a memo- Tickets for the All-Ranks issue of domestic violence include unresolved financial issues, rial walk. Marine Corps Birthday Ball work stress including deployment, mental health or emotional The MCRD Marine Corps Birth- issues and drug or alcohol use. Helpful numbers: day Ball is on Nov. 10. The deadline The Marine Corps operates as a coordinated community • Behavioral Health – Family Advocacy Program – (619) 524- for tickets is Oct. 22. Tickets may be response which brings together all critical personnel to provide 0465 purchased from company gunnery safety to victims and hold abusers accountable. The Marine • Victim Advocate – (619) 524-0421 or (619) 524-0265 sergeants or first sergeants. Corps has been diligent in offering support to victims of • Military OneSource: 1 (800) 342-9647 Domestic Violence through Behavioral Health Services - Family • Center for Community Solutions – 1 (888) 385-4657 Ticket prices are: Advocacy Program. The Family Advocacy Program at MCRD • Family Justice Center Military Liaison – 1 (619) 533-3592 • Officers, civilian Marines is dedicated to the prevention, intervention, safety planning and • National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1 (800) 799-SAFE GS-12 to GS-15 — $55 • Staff Noncommissioned Officers, civilian Marines GS-9 to GS-11 — $40 • Junior enlisted E-5 and below, Around the parade deck civilian Marines GS-4 to GS-8 — $25 With social media now available to Marine users, Chevron staff recently asked people around the depot, “What is • All additional and other your favorite activity on Facebook?” guests — $60 Seating preferences is first come, first served.

Financial Fitness Brown Bag Lunch Seminar The Marine and Family Service Center is hosting a series of free monthly Brown Bag Lunch seminars on personal financial fitness topics ranging from the “Secrets of Finan- cial Success” to “Things to Teach Your Kids About Money.” The next class is “Keys to becom- ing a Successful Investor (Interme- diate to Advanced) with speaker Mr. Gerald Williams, MBA, PFM from Camp Pendleton on Oct. 20 from Pfc. Simone Morgan works in the 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the Marine finance department at the depot Melissa Hansen, a librarian at the Sgt. Javier Fuentes, a drill instruc- & Family Service Center Classroom, and is, “addicted to Facebook.” depot branch library, says she tor for Company E says he uses Building 14. She admits logging on, “just to likes using Facebook to network Facebook pretty much every day. Call the reception desk at (619) check status updates, and to with fellow authors. Hansen enjoys “It makes it much easier to keep 524-5728 to register. add a few of my own.” Morgan, writing poems and short stories, in touch with my friends on the This seminar is open to every- who boasts over 475 Facebook the links to which she posts on East Coast,” he says. Fuentes also one, but will be limited to the first friends, says Facebook makes her profile for her friends to view. uses it for fun, playing MafiaWars, 50 people to register. Light snacks it easier to stay in touch with “Chatting with friends every once a game Facebook offers as an and drinks will be provided free of people, especially her family. and a while is fun, too!” add-on application. charge, but attendees are welcome Pfc. Michael Ito/Chevron Pfc. Michael Ito/Chevron Pfc. Michael Ito/Chevron to bring their own lunch. For more info, contact Michael McIsaac, PFM, MCRD San Diego at (619) 524-1204.

Library on-line tutor The depot library is offering free resources and on-line tutors to active duty, reservists, retirees, DoD and their guests. Professional tutors are available to help with math, science, social studies and English from elementary to advanced levels. Each session is anonymous and one- on-one in a secure online classroom. Help with writing resumes and cover letters is also available. A personal Capt. Eric Anderson, company username and password are needed When Sgt. Michael Haynes isn’t commander, Company C, 1st to access this service. Visit the depot playing the french horn for Marine Gunnery Sgt. Lisa Hunter, adju- Recruit Training Battalion, likes library to create an account. For Band San Diego, he enjoys play- tant, Support Battalion, Recruit to use Facebook a little bit more more information, go to www.usmc- ing the many side games Face- Training Regiment, says she logs inspirationally. He says that when mccs.org or call (619) 524-1849. book offers its users. “The fact on to Facebook 4 to 5 times a he logs onto Facebook, he’ll post that you can compete against week and loves playing games to encouraging quotes and commu- your friends on a weekly basis kill the time. Hunter likes to check nity events on his profile. Ander- Send briefs to: is really cool.” Haynes said he up on friends, as well as savings son added that Facebook can be a [email protected]. The Chevron also likes that there are enough from her favorite stores. “They’ll very powerful tool, “but too often, staff reserves the right to publish different types of games to suit put notices up as to when the best Marines forget to use it (Facebook) only those briefs that comply with anybody’s taste. sales are, and sometimes even responsibly.” Department of Defense regulations Pfc. Michael Ito/Chevron coupons.” Pfc. Michael Ito/Chevron Pfc. Michael Ito/Chevron and the standards of the U.S. Government. CHEVRON ~ AROUND THE CORPS ~ OCTOBER 15, 2010 3 Marines, Afghan Army clear weapons caches By Sgt. Mark Fayloga running around with romantic down, other elements of Co. was the Marines cheering,” forces while clearing com- Regimental Combat Team 1 feelings about combat or any- I, maneuvered to target the Zavala said. pounds along the way, taking thing like that,” said Gunnery enemy positions. The Marines pushed on, two detainees and sweeping up TREK NAWA, Afghanistan — Sgt. Chris Denham, the Co. I “One thing that really continuing to engage enemy weapons caches. The men of Company I, 3rd gunnery sergeant. “But most impressed me was the aware- Battalion, 3rd Marine Regi- Marines, especially younger ness all the Marines demon- ment, were looking for a fight, Marines, they want to prove strated in regards to knowing but it wasn’t a single battle they themselves in combat.” where all the other elements were interested in; they were Zavala was sure to hold were and (remaining) con- hoping to affect future con- their eagerness in check, scious to the possibility of flicts by upsetting the enemy’s reminding them that the clear- fratricide,” Zavala said. “They operations and removing weap- ing mission came first. made sure before taking the ons caches. The company came to the shot, that they understood Partnering with Afghan fight with multiple squads exactly where everybody was.” Army soldiers from the 215th on line, spread 3,000 meters Second platoon’s fire Corps, Co. I, drove the enemy across Trek Nawa and was superiority held the enemy back on its heels, clearing a supported by two mobile units forces in cornfields and nearby portion of Trek Nawa during stationed as blocking positions buildings, such as a compound Operation Mako, Sept. 21. to prevent enemy withdrawal. covered partially from the “We disrupted the enemy,” As they pushed through front by a mosque. said Capt. Francisco X. Zavala, Trek Nawa, all of the enemy All day, Denham had been Co. I commander. “We took signals the men have come to carrying around his light away some of his weapons and know as indicators of a coming antitank weapon, nicknamed forced him to leave the area, at firefight began occurring, Geronimo, and cracking jokes least temporarily — but that but the fight didn’t. With half to keep the men at ease. has a ripple effect. Whatever the day gone, the men moved “Geronimo is getting he had planned to do, he has to across the difficult terrain heavy,” said Denham. “He’s adjust that now. It shows that unchallenged, hold for the ready to go. He’s getting fired on any given day, the Marines ankle-hating plowed fields and today.” can come to his backyard and deep canals. But as second pla- Geronimo got his chance to he has to run.” toon moved forward, the air shine during the last 15 min- As much as the operation suddenly filled with the crack utes of the firefight. Denham was about clearing out weapons of rifles and buzz of bullets. positioned himself on a dirt caches and uprooting enemy “I’m surprised it took as hill and aligned his shot as forces, many Marines were long as it did to get into a fire- accurately as possible. The more enthusiastic about the fight,” Zavala said. “I expected rocket shot across the battle- prospect of making enemy con- contact much earlier.” field, screaming as it slipped Gunnery Sgt. Chris Denham, the company gunnery sergeant for tact. The previous three times The Marines and Afghans by the side of the mosque and Co. I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, watches as the rocket Marines had ventured into the immediately returned fire, collided with the enemy com- from his light anti-tank weapon closes in on a compound used same area in Trek Nawa, they’d engaging the enemy with pound. by enemy fighters during a firefight in Trek Nawa, Afghanistan, drawn fire from enemy forces. rockets, mortars and machine “The only thing louder than while participating in Operation Mako, Sept. 21, 2010. Denham is “We’re not combat junkies, guns. With the enemy pinned the back blast of the rocket from Millbrook, Ala. Sgt. Mark Fayloga/Regiment Combat Team 1 26th MEU supports Pakistan flood relief efforts

A Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter from VMM-266 (REIN), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, flies in route to deliver relief supplies during humanitar- ian assistance operations in the southern province of Sindh, Pakistan. Capt. Paul Duncan/26th MEU

PUBLIC AFFAIRS DIRECTOR COMBAT CORRESPONDENTS chevron/public affairs office henderson ave Maj. Michael W. Armistead Sgt. Wayne Edmiston 1600 . #120 san diego, ca. 92140 Cpl. Matthew Brown (619) 524-8722 DEPUTY DIRECTOR Cpl. Frances Candelaria www.marines.mil/unit/tecom/mcrdsandiego/Pages/welcome.aspx ESTABLISHED 1942 Janice M. Hagar Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas Lance Cpl. Eric Quintanilla The Chevron, printed with appropriated funds in compliance with Marine Corps order P5600.31F, is published by Marine Corps Recruit Depot San PUBLIC AFFAIRS CHIEF Pfc. Michael Ito COMMANDING GENERAL Diego personnel. Opinions and views expressed herein are not necessar- Maj. Gen. Ronald L. Bailey Gunnery Sgt. Laura Gawecki EDITOR ily those of the Marine Corps or the Department of Defense. The Chevron is promulgated for informational purposes only and in no way should be Roger Edwards SERGEANT PRESS CHIEF considered directive in nature. All photos are official USMC property unless Mail comments to: Sgt. Maj. Sylvester D. Daniels Staff Sgt. Marc Ayalin otherwise indicated. [email protected] 4 CHEVRON ~ FEATURE ~ OCTOBER 15, 2010 Fleet Week San Diego offers events, fun for locals by Jeff Zaccaro doors to the public on three U.S. Navy ral Baker Golf Course for a chance to Public Affairs Specialist ships. The festival featured ceremonies win and possess the Fleet Week Inter- and military demonstrations, food and Service Trophy. The trophy was held ace cars hit the track at Naval drink, and performances from military last year by Marine Corps Base Camp Air Station Coronado, the Blue bands, to include Marine Band San Pendleton, and this year they defended Angels flew tight formations Diego. their trophy with a group score of 67 on over Marine Corps Air Station “Events like Fleet Week bridge the gap the par 72 course. Miramar,R and thousands of people ran between civilians and the military, and “It feels great to win,” said Sgt. Frank their first Marine Corps obstacle course we try to make that happen every time Zamora, assistant data chief, Marine here. we perform,” said Staff Sgt. Nicholas Wing Support Squadron 372, MCB These events and much more were Ouellette, small ensemble leader, Marine Camp Pendleton. “I have golfed all my part of this year’s Fleet Week San Diego Band San Diego. “For us, it was really life, and it is nice to be a part of some- held throughout the county Sept. 17 to cool performing at Fleet Week because thing like this. Fleet Week is incredible. Oct. 3. we were on a professional sound stage. It really shows the appreciation from the Fleet Week, which is a Navy, Marine Everything was really well done, and it’s community and seeing that and all the Corps and Coast Guard tradition, has good to recognize the military because donations from different companies and been taking place in San Diego since sometimes ‘thanks’ are few and far individuals is great. It’s nice to know 1935, and today is put on by the San between.” that people still support the troops.” Diego Fleet Week Foundation, a non- As Fleet Week activities pressed on Sporting events continued through- profit organization who strives to honor throughout the week by way of luncheons out the remaining days of Fleet Week and celebrate the men and women of and car parades, the festivities landed a with San Diego Padres games offered the military through public events that major event on the depot Sept. 25 with at discounted rates; in-game honors for entertain, support and thank our troops. the Ninth Annual Boot Camp Challenge. San Diego’s military on Sept. 29; and “San Diego has one of the largest con- The Boot Camp Challenge opened the a public golf tournament at Salt Creek centrations of military personnel in the depot to the public to participate in a Golf Course in Chula Vista, Calif, Sept. world, and Fleet Week is established to grueling three-mile run that included 30. honor and celebrate them while allowing passage through the depot’s obstacle The culminating Fleet Week event the public to interact with the military courses. While participants negotiated was the Miramar Air Show at MCAS and thank them for their service,” said the event’s 15 obstacles, more than 60 Miramar, Oct. 1-3. The Miramar Air Alex Squires, executive director of Fleet yelling depot drill instructors motivated Show is an annual event on the air sta- Week San Diego. them. tion’s flight line that features civilian This year’s Fleet Week kicked off Events like the Boot Camp Challenge and military aircraft performances, with the foundation’s annual Fleet Week are not only fun for the citizens of San demonstrations and vendors. This year’s Breakfast. The breakfast opened the door Diego County, but they also raise money air show was another great Fleet Week for the traditional Operation Liberty to support military programs, accord- accomplishment, according to Sgt. Call. Operation Liberty Call was a col- ing to Kelley Sitar, Semper Fit director, Zachary Dyer, external media noncom- laborative effort between the foundation Marine Corps Community Services, missioned officer in charge, public and local businesses to provide up to MCRD San Diego. affairs office, MCAS Miramar, Calif. 1,000 participants with coupon books “This year we had around 3,600 par- “The air show was really successful with more than $1,000 in savings on ticipants and the proceeds raised by the and all the days were packed,” he said. products and services. Boot Camp Challenge go to enhance pro- “Even though the weather was some- “The local businesses and the Armed grams under MCCS to better the quality times bad, people still showed up and Forces YMCA put together a lot of great of life for depot personnel,” she said. we showed them how much we appreci- deals and prizes this year,” said Squires. To keep the Fleet Week adrenaline ate their support.” “The turn out this year was great and we rush going after the Boot Camp Chal- With Fleet Week officially over, the had Marines come as far as Twentynine lenge, participants were afforded the San Diego Fleet Week Foundation is Palms for Operation Liberty Call. The opportunity to attend Naval Air Station hoping to make next year’s event even participation gets greater every year the Coronado’s Race at the Base, a speed better than ever. word spreads.” festival featuring races with classic cars “This year was amazingly success- To add to Fleet Week, the Big Bay ranging from 1952 production cars to ful,” said Squires. “There was great Family Festival was a welcomed treat for full-blown historic NASCARs. attendance, and the public, military and San Diego County Sept. 18-19. As one of During the final days of Fleet Week, families all had a great time. With inter- the more iconic Fleet Week traditions, enlisted military members participated est steadily increasing, we hope to have the Big Bay Family Festival opened the in an enlisted golf tournament at Admi- even greater participation in the future.”

The Navy’s Blue Angels fly in formation during their performance at the 2010 Marine One event that always draws crowds during San Diego’s Fleet Week is the annual Marine Corps Air Station Miramar air show. Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show, part of Fleet Week San Diego. Fleet Week is an The event brings thousands out to see aircraft and military equipment on the ground and in the air. annual event that encourages locals and visitors to celebrate the spirit and achieve- Pfc. Ryan D. Carpenter/MCAS Miramar ments of sailors, Marines and coast guardsmen. Pfc. Ryan D. Carpenter/ CHEVRON ~ FEATURE ~ OCTOBER 15, 2010 5

Two drill instructors from 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, loudly encourage one of the thousands of runners participating in Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego’s ninth annual Boot Camp Challenge during Fleet Week San Diego. The participation of drill instruc- tors gives the event a feeling of authenticity, and something for runners to tell friends and family. Cpl. Matthew Brown/Chevron

Vice Adm. Richard Hunt, commander of U.S. 3rd Fleet, waves to the crowd before a baseball game between the San Diego Padres and the Chicago Cubs during Fleet Week San Diego. The event shows the community’s support for the Navy and Marine Corps team through various events and celebrations throughout the San Diego area. Petty Officer 3rd Class Torrey Lee/U.S. Navy

The Navy’s Blue Angels fly in formation during their performance at the 2010 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show, part of Fleet Week San Diego. Fleet Week is an annual event that encourages locals and visitors to celebrate the spirit and achieve- A sailor holds his helmet as the driver makes a high speed turn on the runways of Naval Air Station North Island during the 13th ments of sailors, Marines and coast guardsmen. Pfc. Ryan D. Carpenter/ annual Coronado Speed Festival during Fleet Week San Diego. Seaman Paul Kelly/U.S. Navy 6 CHEVRON ~ FEATURE ~ OCTOBER 15, 2010 Former police officer, firefighter becomes U.S. Marine by Lance Cpl. Katalynn For Pfc. Loren J. Bumgar- years-old. He completed his learning the proper mindset “I have always been Thomas ner, Platoon 2105, Company training two years later. when dealing with inmates, impressed when I read about Chevron Staff E, 2nd Recruit Training Bat- The Choctaw, Okla., native Bumgarner said. Marines in magazines and talion, it has been his day-to- said he became a firefighter After completing the sher- online, and the difference hen children day life. He initially worked because his father was one. iff’s training program he was they have made where they are asked what as a firefighter, then became “It’s kind of like a family hired as a correctional officer go,” said Bumgarner. “I was they what to a correctional officer, and trade,” Bumgarner added. at the Oklahoma County highly determined to be a part be when they is now a U.S. Marine who is Bumgarner attended Sheriff’s Office. of the Marines.” Wgrow up, many say they want scheduled to train as a satel- Oklahoma State University in According to Bumgarner, Bumgarner said that plenty to be a firefighter, police offi- lite communications electri- Stillwater, Okla., and received he decided to become a cor- of people had asked him why cer, or to serve in the military. cian. a bachelor’s degree in munici- rectional officer because he he didn’t go to Officer Candi- However, not often do chil- While in high school, pal fire and fire protection. wanted to learn new skills and date School, since he had his dren grow up and become all Bumgarner began training as Bumgarner said he always the occupation offered better bachelor’s degree. three. a firefighter when he was 16- loved firefighting, and is health insurance. “Since I will have went to really considering going back “Ever since I was a kid, I boot camp and possibly been to it after the Marine Corps. wanted to be a police officer,” deployed, it’s like both sides He says he loves to help said Bumgarner. “So I fin- of the sword,” said Bumgar- people because it’s a fun and ished my degree and joined ner. “I’m thinking of going interesting job and there’s lots the sheriff’s office.” the officer’s route, maybe two of physical training involved. After some time in the years into my Marine Corps It’s something he can’t really sheriff’s office, he added career.” get away from. “Even sitting volunteer firefighter to his During those two years, out here, he hears sirens and resume. Bumgarner will have to push his ears start to perk up and “I wanted to maintain himself and show that he has he starts looking around,” he the rigorous training,” said the right initiative before he said. Bumgarner. “So I continued can be an officer. After he obtained his working both as a firefighter “He’s showed initiative, degree, he continued as a during the day and a correc- that’s for sure,” said Sgt. firefighter in Choctaw for tional officer at night.” Javier Valles, drill instruc- five years and also attended As a correctional officer, tor, Platoon 2105, Co. E, 2nd the Oklahoma County Sher- he worked with inmates, to Recruit Training Battalion. iff’s Office training program manage and transport them “He also showed he can get to be a correctional officer. throughout the facility. stuff done. He always comes He believed this was another He eventually left both of up with plans to accomplish passion he could pursue as a his careers because he wanted what needs to be done.” career. to make a difference not only According to Bumgarner, The police officer train- for himself, but for others. as long as he keeps making ing course teaches physical So he decided to join the plans, he can accomplish what defense and encompasses Marines. he needs to in the Marines.

Pfc. Loren J. Bumgarner, Platoon 2105, Company E, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, waits for another Marine to take his place as a Pfc. Loren J. Bumgarner, Platoon 2105, Company E, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, takes notes road guard. Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron during a period of instruction Oct. 13. Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron

Col. Nicholas F. platoon commander and com- In October 1996, he was tal inspector-instructor. to June 2009, he served as the pany commander. During this ordered to Headquarters, U.S. He was ordered to the I assistant chief of staff, opera- Marano period, he attended the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe Marine Expeditionary Force, tions, Training and Education Army and was in Stuttgart, Germany, serv- as the operations officer in Command, Quantico, Va. Parade Reviewing Officer the officer honor graduate. ing as the regional opera- August 2002. He deployed to Marano assumed his duties In June 1990, he was ordered tions officer. He attended the Kuwait as the officer-in-charge as the commanding officer, Col. Nicholas Marano to recruiting duty at Recruiting Multinational Staff Officers’ for the 1 MEF advanced party Marine Corps Base, Camp enlisted in the Marine Corps Station San Francisco, where he Course at the North Atlantic and established Camp Com- Pendleton, Calif., in June 2009. Reserve in March 1980 and served as the Treaty Organization School mando. During Operation Iraqi served as a rifleman with 2nd and the 12th Marine Corps in Oberammergau, Germany, Freedom I, he served as the Battalion, 25th Marines, prior District contact team officer at and participated in numerous senior watch officer for the 1 to graduating from St. Joseph’s Naval Station Treasure Island. NATO/Partnership for Peace MEF throughout Iraq. During University. He was commis- From 1993 to 1994, he attended exercises throughout Europe. Operation Iraqi Freedom II, he sioned a second lieutenant in the Amphibious Warfare In 1998, he participated in served as the current opera- January 1985, designated an School at Quantico, Va., gradu- Operation Auburn Endeavor tions officer. infantry officer, and assigned ating with honors. in the Republic of Georgia, and In June 2005, Marano to 3rd Bn., 9th Marines, In June 1994, he returned Operation Noble Anvil/Allied assumed command of 1st Marine Corps Base Camp to Camp Pendleton and 3rd Force in Albania and Kosovo, Bn., 7th Marines, 1st Marine Pendleton, Calif. Bn., 9th Marines, and served in 1999. Division. He returned to Iraq While at 3rd Bn., 9th as the commanding officer of In August 1999, he trans- to lead Task Force 1/7 during Marines, he served as a rifle Company K. In 1995, he was ferred to the 23rd Marine Operation Iraqi Freedom 05-07, platoon commander, company selected to the rank of major Regiment in San Bruno, Calif., along the Syrian Border in Al executive officer, and company and transferred in June to the and served as the regimental Qaim. commander. In September , opera- operations officer from 1999 to From January to August 1988, he transferred to the 1st tions, where he served as the 2001. In June 2001, he was pro- 2007, Marano attended the Reconnaissance Bn., where assistant operations officer and moted to lieutenant and NATO Defense College in he served as a reconnaissance later, the assistant plans officer. assumed the duties as regimen- Rome, Italy. From August 2007 CHEVRON ~ GRADUATING COMPANY ~ OCTOBER 15, 2010 7

Platoon 3243 Platoon 2107 Platoon 2101 Platoon 2102 Platoon 2103 Platoon 2105 Platoon 2106 Platoon 2108 Platoon 2103 Platoon 2102 COMPANY HONOR MAN SERIES HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN PLATOON HONOR MAN HIGH SHOOTER (335) HIGH PFT (300) Lance Cpl. D. J. Pfc. J. D. Corral Pfc. M. A. Boyd Pfc. R. J. Beaman Pfc. L. Reavley Pfc. Z. L. Moore Pfc. D. I. Mosley Pfc. P. R. McManus Pfc. R. Gutton Constantine Danville, Calif. Atlanta, Texas Newhall, Calif. Joliet, Ill Daingerfield, Texas Catoosa, Okla. St. Louis Midland, Texas Orland Park, Ill. Recruited by Recruited by Recruited by Recruited by Recruited by Recruited by Marksmanship Instructor Recruited by Recruited by Staff Sgt. P. Gentile Sgt. D. D. Johnson Sgt. M. Gonzalez Sgt. D. L. Robinson Sgt. S. Murphey Sgt. T. Weber Sgt. C. Matthys Sgt. K. Lucas Sgt. A. Betancourth Jr. ECHO COMPANY

2ND RECRUIT TRAIN- Pfc. J. P. Kaplan Drill Instructors Pvt. A. W. Barlow Pvt. B. N. Nicholson Pfc. A. J. Moring Pfc. J. R. Salomon Jr. ING BATTALION *Pfc. K. A. McDermott Sgt. G. L. Borjon Pvt. K. W. Barnett Pvt. W. C. O’Bryan Pvt. M. D. Moyer Pvt. J. D. Samuel Commanding Officer Pvt. J. A. Morris Sgt. S. C. Jackman Pfc. C. Bautista Pvt. G. A. Olivia Pvt. R. M. Nugent Pvt. A. J. Sandoval Lt. Col. R. L. Hairston Pfc. J. R. Parris Sgt. J. D. Reaves *Pfc. J. N. Beckman Pvt. T. M. Olson Pfc. A. S. Ohlendorf Pvt. M. J. Santoyo Executive Officer Pvt. J. A. Pehrson Pvt. B. I. Bias Pvt. K. R. Oltmanns Pvt. J. A. Olalde Pvt. J. A. Seandel-Skapik Maj. L. J. Levine Pvt. M. F. Phomphakdy Pvt. W. J. Aguilar-Villegas Pvt. E. D. Boisvert Pfc. A. L. Ortiz Pvt. J. Orozco Pvt. T. R. Shay Sergeant Major Pvt. C. C. Sullins Pvt. T. J. Alexander Pvt. C. D. Bornowski Pvt. A. C. O’Shaughnessy Pvt. N. S. Owens Pvt. A. D. Shepherd Sgt. Maj. M. J. O’Loughlin Pvt. H. B. Twobulls Pvt. M. Alverez Pfc. S. P. Braudis Pfc. D. W. Penner Pfc. R. L. Pangilinan Pvt. T. F. Shinners Chaplain Pvt. C. J. Wilson Pvt. S. N. Anderson Pfc. C. Brennan-Heffern Pvt. R. Perez Pvt. J. J. Partee Pfc. M. Shoals Jr. Lt. Cmdr. G. B. Younger Pfc. N. K. Andrews Pvt. D. P. Bristow Pfc. Q. V. Phan Pfc. M. J. Pasag Pfc. A. J. Sierra Battalion Drill Master PLATOON 2102 Pvt. J. Aplin Pvt. B. J. Brown Pfc. D. Ramires Pvt. J. B. Penagraves Pvt. C. D. Smith Staff Sgt. E. O. Hidalgo Senior Drill Instructor Pvt. J. A. Aragon Pvt. M.R. Bucholz Pvt. R. R. Ramirez Pvt. J. R. Perez-Roberts Pvt. C. L. Smith Sgt. G. P. Gonzales Pvt. K. D. Arguello Pfc. L. J. Bumgarner Pfc. N. M. Ray Pvt. J. J. Phillips Pvt. L. F. Solorzano COMPANY E Drill Instructors *Pfc. R. J. Beaman Pvt. Z. T. Cato Pvt. S. C. Reid Pvt. M. Phonepaseuth Pvt. R. L. Southers Commanding Officer Sgt. L. A. Alicea Pvt. J. D. Blake Pvt. J. E. Clark *Pfc. D. D. Reite Jr. Pvt. M. T. Priester Pvt. W. D. Spoonmore Jr. Capt. B. C. Schexnayder Sgt. J. B. Ferguson Pvt. M. C. Blansett Pvt. D. C. Cossu Pvt. J. F. Reno Pvt. J. J. Quiggle Pvt. T. E. Staten Company First Sergeant Sgt. J. Fuentes *Pfc. J. Bouck Pvt. G. Cruz Pfc. M. A. Reyes Pfc. B. W. Quinton Pfc. J. B. Stevens 1st Sgt. J. R. Sanders Pvt. J. M. Branch Pfc. J. A. Cuellar Pvt. N. G. Reynoso Pvt. D. J. Rebout Pfc. P. A. Stewart Pvt. S. C. Aguirre Pfc. L. Buchele Pvt. P. DeRidder Pfc. J. J. Rice Pfc. K. A. Reynen Pfc. D. C. Sullivan SERIES 2101 Pvt. R. C. Allen Pvt. J. W. Burton Pvt. W. J. Deschaine Pvt. S. L. Rice-Shores Pvt. J. A. Rodriguez Pfc. B. A. Telfer Series Commander Pvt. R. J. Alvis III Pvt. J. K. Caldwell Pfc. M. R. Eardley Pfc. N. W. Ring Pfc. R. I. Roman Pfc. A. R. Thacker Capt. C. M. Schnappinger Pfc. K. N. Archer Pvt. I. Camarillo Pvt. J. A. Emerick *Pfc. J. P. Robinson Pvt. C. W. Ross Pvt. A. L. Thomas Series Chief Drill Instructor Pvt. G. Arellano Jr. Pvt. R. N. Carver Pvt. C. J. Erps Pfc. J. A. Rojas Pfc. B. A. Roudebush Pvt. E. S. Thompson Staff Sgt. T. L. Horn Pvt. C. D. Armenta Pvt. J. A. Crouse Pvt. B. M. Gaines Pvt. R. Robles Pvt. R. E. Sanders Pvt. T. R. Tite Pvt. S. T. Arnold Pvt. B. A. Cruz Pvt. R. Gamez Jr. Pvt. D. Romero Pvt. P. A. Santos *Pfc. C. M. Todd PLATOON 2101 Pvt. M. W. Autrey Pvt. D. I. Daniels Pfc. J. S. Garcia Pvt. A. A. Rosales Pvt. P. K. Shelton Pvt. B. T. Travis Senior Drill Instructor Pfc. A. Baez Pvt. T. J. DiGiacomo Pfc. J. T. Garrard Pvt. M. Rosales Pfc. E. E. Short Jr. Pvt. T. B. Tribble Staff Sgt. J. F. Richard *Pfc. R. D. Baggett Pvt. J. J. Double Pvt. A. Gomez-Segundo Pvt. E. A. Rueseler *Pfc. A. L. Smolek Pvt. J. T. Tuckett Drill Instructors Pvt. N. Y. Baump Pfc. B. M. Escochea Pvt. A. R. Graham Pfc. S. M. Salazar Pfc. J. A. Soller *Pfc. J. D. Valdez Sgt. A. J. Butler Pvt. Z. E. Bazner Pfc. L. T. Ewell Jr. Pvt. M. A. Guzman Pvt. V. G. Salcido Pvt. A. E. Stokes Pfc. P. Valenzuela Sgt. I. R. Castellanos Pvt. S. F. Bell Pvt. L. Fernandez Pvt. C. G. Ha Pvt. J. Sandoval Pvt. D. P. Sullivan Pfc. J. F. Walters Sgt. J. E. Orozco-Colorado Pvt. J. E. Bizzell Pvt. M. N. Fetizanan Pvt. J. W. Hamrick Pvt. E. J. Santoro Pvt. R. K. Taylor Pfc. P. L. Weaver Pfc. M. A. Boyd Pvt. X. A. Fierro Pfc. C. L. Hansen Pvt. A. D. Schaefer Pfc. J. Thai Pvt. W. J. Weiesnbach Pvt. M. C. Acayan Pvt. K. R. Broussard Pvt. R. L. Galaxy Pfc. T. A. Haugtevedt *Pfc. K. S. Schaper Pvt. C. C. Torres Pfc. T. S. West Pvt. M. A. Ader Pvt. K. A. Cady Pvt. C. N. George Pvt. B. L. Henderson Pvt. J. T. Schlender Pvt. C. O. Tubbs Pvt. W. C. Wong Pfc. J. M. Adison Pfc. C. I. Carillo Pvt. J. B. Godoy Pfc. D. A. Hodel Pvt. A. V. Schumacher Pvt. K. J. Turner Pfc. B. A. Woolard Pvt. Z. Aguayo Pvt. D. W. Carlson Pvt. J. Gonzalez Pvt. H. I. Iniguez Pvt. S. J. Sevey Pvt. M. J. Vansickle Pvt. S. Yang Pvt. D. J. Alvey Pfc. J. A. Castanho Pfc. D. Guzman Pvt. T. D. Jasper Pfc. E. Silva-Espinoza Pfc. J. M. Varadi Pvt. Y. Yang Pvt. J. G. Anderson Pvt. D. L. Cetera Pfc. E. J. Ha Pvt. I. J. Jernigan Pvt. R. J. Slaughter Pfc. R. P. Vasquez Pvt. L. L. Anderson *Pfc. M. A. Clock Pfc. M. C. Heliste Pfc. A. D. Johnson Pvt. R. C. Smith Pfc. J. A. Walters Pvt. P. Arellano Pvt. R. J. Coulthard Pfc. E. J. Herrera Pvt. A. A. Jones Jr. Pvt. D. J. Smotherman Pvt. S. T. Warren Pvt. B. Barela Pvt. K. A. Courtoise Pfc. B. Horrmann Pvt. D. R. Karo Pfc. J. A. Soto Pvt. J. D. Wells Pvt. B. V. Bazari *Pfc. F. O. Crain Pvt. J. W. Hunke Pfc. N. A. Koffarnus Pfc. D. L. Spindler Pvt. W. R. Wheelock *Pfc. J. E. Berens Pfc. N. E. Creighton *Pfc. J. E. Ingersoll Pvt. J. K. Konstantakis Pfc. H. S. Spiri Pvt. H. A. Wielinski Pfc. J. M. Bird Pvt. M. A. Cruz Pfc. J. K. Ito Pvt. R. M. Koppel Pvt. L. E. Spring Pvt. T. M. Wilder Pvt. T. J. Bohnen-Kamp Pvt. R. M. DeCamp Pvt. S. Katris Jr. Pvt. A. J. Lavassaur Pvt. S. M. Stapleton Pvt. K. A. Williams * Indicates meritorious Pfc. J. Braica Pvt. J. A. Docuyanan Pvt. L. C Keith Pvt. G. A. Lilly Pfc. N. D. Suh Pvt. P. A. Wineman promotion Pfc. C. A. Brimhall Pvt. A. J. Donovan Pfc. S. P. Kirst Pvt. J. A. Lopez Pvt. T. J. Sundseth Pvt. C. J. Woodson Pvt. F. L. Brisco Pfc. C. J. Frederick Pvt. S. M. Kuziel Pvt. T. M. Lopez *Pfc. M. G. Surrena Pvt. E. P. Wynder Pfc. J. E. Brown *Pfc. N. J. Fremen Pvt. M. N. LaCavalier Pvt. A. C. Lovell Pfc. E. M. Sweet Pvt. D. A. Ybarra Pvt. D. A. Caragan Pvt. A. R. Fuentes Pfc. M. J. LaCount Pvt. J. T. MacKenzie Pvt. M. S. Swope *Pfc. T. D. Young Pvt. D. R. Gailey Pvt. J. F. Catlett Pfc. D. M. Lagel Pvt. M. H. Marcinowski Pfc. E. F. Taylor Pvt. C. C. Zywicke Pvt. J. Gaona IV Pvt. J. M. Caudillo *Pfc. G. Lao Pvt. M. B. McCleary Pvt. D. Trejo Pvt. J. L. Gouker Pfc. N. D. Ceja Pfc. K. J. Ledesma Pvt. O. P. McGinn Pfc. M. A. Vanderhoeven PLATOON 2108 Pvt. J. B. Greer Pvt. A. J. Cessna Pvt. J. C. Lee Pfc. S. H. McGlennen Pfc. C. R. Verden Senior Drill Instructor Pvt. J. R. Greger Pfc. C. T. Chuong Pvt. Z. H. Light Pvt. C. R. Medellin Pvt. A. Z. Vernon Staff Sgt. J. D. Halverson *Pfc. R. Gutton Pfc. C. I. Contreras Pvt. P. G. Lindley Pfc. T. E. Medina Pvt. D. J. Wall Drill Instructors Pvt. J. R. Hager Pvt. J. P. Cordova Pvt. B. A. Liu Pvt. Y. A. Mendoza Pvt. J. A. Werner Staff Sgt. Z. D. Curran Pfc. C. D. Hails Pfc. D. Corella Pvt. M. H. Loaiza Pvt. A. M. Phillips Pvt. D. R. Woods Staff Sgt. A. Gomez- Pvt. C. D. Hansen *Pfc. J. D. Corral Pvt. F. J. Lopez Pvt. T. J. Pilat Pvt. C. G. Wycklendt Fletes Pfc. E. K. Harrison Pvt. K. B. Cosbey Pvt. L. J. Lovell Pfc. M. E. Porter Pvt. R. J. Young Staff Sgt. R. R. Ramirez Pvt. C. D. Haston Pvt. J. B. Coulson Pvt. S. L. Lucas Pvt. A. D. Rainier Pvt. C. G. Zimdars Pvt. J. P. Hays Pvt. J. R. Crum Pvt. F. R. Machado Pvt. J. Ramirez Pvt. P. T. Htut Pvt. D. R. Hayes Pfc. K. G. David Pfc. T. M. Magliolo Pfc. E. Ramos PLATOON 2107 Pfc. J. D. Hubble Pvt. W. C. Hayes Pvt. E. G. Davila Pfc. S. P. Mahoney Pvt. J. Ready Senior Drill Instructor Pvt. B. J. Kelsey Pvt. P. L. Hill Pfc. A. P. Day Pfc. A. Z. Malik *Pfc. L. Reavley Jr. Sgt. E. L. Harstine Pvt. L. L. Kennedy Pvt. D. L. Hock Pvt. C. L. Demarty Pfc. B. J. Marsh Pvt. A. J. Reed Drill Instructors Pvt. N. A. Keown Pfc. J. A. Hoffman Pvt. E. Diaz Pvt. A. J. Martinez Pvt. A. D. Reynolds Sgt. J. I. Abdul Pvt. J. K. Langley Pvt. J. J. Hoosava Pvt. K. C. Diaz Pvt. J. C. McClain Pvt. T. S. Roennebeck Sgt. J. J. Barnhill Pvt. N. D. Lawrence Pfc. D. R. Hopkins Jr. Pvt. R. L. Diedrich Pvt. C. McCormick Sgt. J. C. Lopez Pvt. D. A. Horta Jr. *Pfc. A. L. Sickman Pvt. T. Le Pvt. M. S. Digiorgio Pvt. B. T. McLaughlin Pfc. A. W. Householder Pvt. G. R. Snyder Pfc. J. K. Livingston Pvt. N. R. Dominguez Pvt. N. A. Ivon Pvt. P. R. McManus Pvt. R. L. Street Pvt. J. C. Abrams Pfc. B. C. Lopez Pfc. N. H. Dumke Pfc. Q. J. Jackson Pvt. S. R. McVay *Pfc. A. C. Vincent Pfc. A. Ahyoung Pvt. C. C. Losee Pvt. T. J. Elsing Pvt. L. J. Jones Pvt. O. E. Melendez *Pfc. N. J. Vincent Pvt. H. Arriaga-Ramirez Pvt. K. M. Lux Pvt. T. R. Emond Pvt. Z. E. Kalaitzakis Pvt. S. P. Pantoja Pvt. A. P. Walters *Pfc. C. M. Ault Pfc. I. K. MacDonald Pfc. M. A. Escarcega Pvt. A. D. Keranen Pfc. R. A. Rivera Jr. Pfc. B. R. Zimmerman Pfc. J. Balbuena Pvt. P. E. Maddox Pvt. M. V. Fath Pvt. R. W. Kick Pfc. G. M. Sargeant Pvt. D. Berrun Pfc. S. U. Makihele Pvt. D. D. Francis Pfc. B. J. Knevitt Pvt. K. G. Schmidt PLATOON 2106 Pvt. C. R. Bolin Pvt. R. M. Manjarrez III Pvt. A. M. Friend Pvt. J. F Kuberski Pvt. R. E. Socie Senior Drill Instructor Pfc. J. F. Carig *Pfc. M. A. Melara Pvt. B. T. Fujii Pfc. C. R. Lewis Pfc. M. B. Thompson Staff Sgt. E. S. Hernandez Pvt. C. M. Cater Pvt. J. R. Miller Pvt. M. A. Garcia Pvt. P. P. Lopez Pfc. S. G. Thompson Drill Instructors Pvt. J. C. Chavez Pvt. W. Miller *Pfc. C. J. Geilenfeldt Pvt. R. Lopez-Sosa Jr. Pvt. O. Vergara Staff Sgt. J. J. Anciaux *Lance Cpl. D. J. *Pfc. R. Miranda Pvt. A. R. Gill Pvt. R. A. Madrigal *Pfc. J. E. Wright Staff Sgt. P. D. Galindo Constantine *Pfc. D. I. Mosley Pvt. C. D. Glaser Pvt. R. E. Mesa Pvt. D. D. Young Staff Sgt. A. Glenn Pvt. J. B. Davis II Pfc. R. A. Nelson Pvt. M. C. Gonzales Pvt. T. J. Miller Pvt. D. M. Depew Pvt. J. Orozco Pvt. T. W. Goodman Pvt. D. A. Moore SERIES 2105 Pvt. D. A. Marley Pvt. J. S. Eagleburger Pvt. T. A. Ose Pvt. I. Guan Pfc. C. M. Morgan Series Commander Pvt. C. Z. Marth Pvt. J. D. Gallegos Pfc. M. A. Pacheco Pvt. J. A. Harrington Pfc. H. C. Nguyen Capt. M. A. Lamb Pfc. J. S. Matney Pvt. E. M. Geers Pvt. J. D. Pairsh Pfc. S. A. Havlik Pfc. D. A. Ochoa Chief Drill Instructor Pvt. J. G. McClinton Pfc. G. H. Gonzalez Pvt. A. K. Pana Pfc. T. W. Hays Pfc. J. P. Ortega Gunnery Sgt. D. J. Farmer Pvt. S. R. Mendez Pvt. W. M. Hankins Pvt. C. T. Passick Pfc. D. L. Hellums Pvt. P. J. Ortlieb Pfc. L. A. Mendoza Pvt. E. R. Horn Pvt. M. R. Perry Pvt. J. R. Hillis Pvt. S. D. Scheussler PLATOON 2105 Pvt. M. A. Metheny Pvt. C. J. Howe Pfc. J. L. Portillo Pvt. S. R. Hinkle Pvt. M. E. Sheppard Senior Drill Instructor Pvt. T. J. Miller Pfc. N. R. Hutchens Pvt. J. J. Pritchard Pfc. J. A. Hugasian Pvt. S. R. Simoneaux Sgt. J. Soto Pfc. G. Molina Pvt. M. J. Jay Jr. Pvt. J. A. Quintana *Pfc. R. D. Hunt Pvt. C. L. Sloat Drill Instructors Pvt. S. A. Moore Pvt. M. S. Karwatka Pvt. K. J. Rice Pvt. D. A. Hurwitz Pvt. T. A. Whaley Sgt. R. Melendez *Pfc. Z. L. Moore Pvt. J. E. Kock Pvt. T. M. Richey Pvt. C. T. Jocham Pvt. T. A. Wolfe Sgt. J. F. Olivas Pvt. C. J. Mora-Rodriguez *Pfc. C. A. LaFlamme Pvt. P. J. Robbins Pfc. A. D. Johnson Sgt. J. Valles-Esparza Pvt. C. M. Morris Pfc. H. M. Leyva Pvt. T. D. Robinson Pfc. A. J. Johnson PLATOON 2103 Pfc. H. S. Munera Pvt. D. Malik Pvt. T. R. Ross Jr. Pvt. A. T. Jones Senior Drill Instructor Pfc. N. D. Aschenbrenner Pfc. A. D. Munk Pvt. F. Mendez Pfc. A. E. Roybal Pfc. I. A. Jump Staff Sgt. D. C. Robinson Pvt. M. A. Avelar Pvt. R. L. Nguyen Pfc. S. A. Montano Pfc. A. A. Saenz 8 CHEVRON ~ FEATURE ~ OCTOBER 15, 2010 Pugil sticks help teach close quarters combat by Lance Cpl. Katalynn training. Each one teaches the Thomas recruit something new and Chevron Staff progressively more intricate, he added. The sound of a whistle blow “The first time they do pugil brings two Marine recruits sticks is basically an introduction charging into the middle of a to getting struck,” said Staff Sgt. dirt ring in one of the training Gustavo Hernandez, MAIT, ITC. areas of Marine Corps Recruit “The second time around they Depot San Diego. Other than fight two-on-two so they can the grunts and groans from the get a feel of what it’s like to work fighters, drill instructors can with the person next to them. be heard yelling at the recruits The third is all out. They use to hit here, or slash there. The everything they’ve learned – no two men continue raining blows holds barred.” on each other waiting to hear When the recruits came the merciful whistle blow once charging into the pit, they ran again, to signal that their match into each other with a resound- is over. ing thud, then attempted to get a The recruits of Company “killing blow” on their opponent. E performed their final pugil “Pugil sticks are a good tool sticks training, Sept. 25, to hone to break down barriers recruits their skills with bayonets before have when they get here,” said leaving the depot to conduct the Ferguson. “Some of the recruits Crucible. are not used to being around “Pugil sticks are a part of people, so this helps them bond bayonet training,” said Sgt. Rudy when they engage each other in Moctezuma, Marine Corps combat.” Martial Arts instructor trainer, The recruits usually don’t Instructional Training Com- know who they are fighting pany, Recruit Training Regi- because they are paired by ment. “The sticks are marked to weight and the are tell the difference between where mixed, according to Moctezuma. the bayonet of the rifle would be, A Marine can never tell the size which is the red end. The butt of of who they will fight against in the rifle is the black end.” combat, so we try to imitate that, The pugil sticks are padded he added. on both ends, and have hockey “Being in pugil sticks puts gloves attached to the stick to you in a combat mindset to win protect the recruits’ hands, said against whomever it is you are Moctezuma. fighting,” said Recruit Shawn The recruits completed Stapleton, Platoon 2106. their third pugil stick training Not only is pugil sticks a great evolution since setting foot on way to learn how to use a combat the depot. Pugil Sticks III is set mindset, it’s also a motivating in a bunker-like pit where two activity for the recruits. entrances lead into the middle While they are busy fight- of a dirt circle surrounded by ing their peers, the recruits are padded walls. calming themselves down a little Drill instructors and corps- without knowing it. men watch over the competing “Pugil sticks are a great stress recruits on a catwalk that looks reliever,” said Sgt. Julian Orozco, over the pit. drill instructor, Platoon 2101. “The recruits participate in “They get to take out a lot of pugil sticks three times while anger. Sometimes they need a in boot camp,” said Sgt. Joseph way to relieve a little stress.” Ferguson, drill instructor, Pla- At the end of this training toon 2102, Co. E. “It helps build evolution, Co. E recruits head confidence in close quarters back to their squad bays, bat- combat and lets them experience tered, bloodied and bruised, but the adrenaline of it.” more motivated. They also had According to Ferguson, pugil some interesting stories about Recruit Michael J. LaCount, Platoon 2103, Company E., 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, uses the sticks training is comprised of the fights they got into at boot wall as leverage to get the upper hand on Recruit Gregory Sargent, Platoon 2103, Co. E, 2nd Recruit three phases, just like recruit camp to tell their families. Training Bn., during their pugil sticks match here, Sept. 21. Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron

Recruit Nick Hutchins, Platoon 2107, Company E, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, double checks the helmet of Recruit Mychal McCleary, Platoon 2105, Co. E, 2nd Recruit Training Bn., before he gets his pugil stick and enters the ring here. Company E recruits practice Marine Corps Marital Arts moves while they await their turn in the Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron pugil sticks ring here. Lance Cpl. Katalynn Thomas/Chevron