Marine Corps Merit Award winning newspaper

Vol. 12 No. 18 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif. May 07, 2010

MCX hosts conference ‘Lady Ace’ secures place in history Retailers, vendors come to Miramar

Cpl. Aubry L. Buzek Sgts. Joseph Dickens, Andrew Kelly, Justin Boone and Jason Penrod salute the commanding offi cer of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165 during the “Lady Ace 09” unveiling ceremony at the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum here April 30. The four Marines were responsible for the restoration of “Lady Ace 09,” which was the CH-46E “Sea Knight” helicopter used to evacuate the American ambassador during the fall of Saigon April 30, 1975. Operation Caregiver supports troops

Lance Cpl. Alexandra M. Harris Afghanistan. COMBAT CORRESPONDENT The event was part of a program called “Operation Caregiver,” which sends care packages to different

Lance Cpl. Zachary Majors When Marines are deployed and water is scarce, military units two to four times a year. A freestyle Motocross rider jumps from a large ramp outside the they turn to baby wipes to keep up with their hygiene. “It began with my friend who was deployed,” said Marine Corps Exchange here May 3. The Motocross event was More than 60 volunteers from local San Diego Michael LaMar, the Operation Caregiver administra- part of this year’s MCX Retail Conference. organizations and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar tor who began the program in 2004. “It was basically GO TO MCX, PAGE 5 AND 6 helped put together care packages here May 1 for more than 1,300 Marines with the 7th Marine Regiment in GO TO CAREGIVER, PAGE 3

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL HHS ARMORER ʻGETS HOOKEDʼ ON REACH US MCAS Miramar MARINES 3MAW FLYING SPORT FISHING Web site Marines from Marine Air Controls A Marine from Headquarters and Head- Squadron 1 (Reinforced) work around quarters Squadron shares his love of the www.miramar.usmc.mil the clock to ensure safe travel for aircraft sport as well as some fi sh stories. For EDITORIAL in Afghanistan. For full story, see page 4. full story, see page 7. 858-577-6000 NEWS ‘The Few’ and the not so proud

Staff Sgt. Christine E. Polvorosa INTERNAL INFORMATION CHIEF

Editorʼs note: Staff Sgt. Polvorosa is the internal information chief for the Flight Jacket and a regular contributor. What are you doing Marines! Is it too hard to follow directions and do May 07, 2010 the right thing! You know, when I hear the phrase “theyʼre still doing that,” the first thing that comes to mind is tradition. However, when that phrase is used in response to hearing Marines doing drugs, I am appalled. With 12 years in the Marine Corps, I can tell you that the use or distribution of drugs or controlled substances has always been a prob- lem. In fact, I can remember as a lance corporal, in 1999, with I Marine Maj. Gen. Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group at Marine Corps Base Camp Thomas L. Conant Pendleton, Calif., Marines were getting busted for using ecstasy and Religious Services Commanding General cocaine. In 2003, while I was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., there was a huge issue with Marines gearing up on steroids as a The Chaplainʼs Office, located in Building 5632 on Bauer quick-fix remedy to bulking up. Road, coordinates regularly scheduled services. For the Now I have to admit that Marines taking steroids was a big shock to location and meeting schedules of religious activities, call me because it never occurred to me that the pressure to be a top physical 858-577-1333, or visit performer, who gets the 300-PFT score, would be so overwhelming that www.miramar.usmc.mil. Marines would chose taking performance-enhancing drugs over discipline Sunday: and determination. 9 a.m. Protestant Worship Service Whereʼs the “honor” in that? Whereʼs the “courage” to do the right 9:30 a.m. Protestant Childrenʼs Worship thing? Whereʼs the “commitment” you made to following regulations? 11 a.m. Roman Catholic Eucharist I can also recall after checking in to Recruiting Station San Fran- Religious Education/Sunday: cisco in January 2005, three recruiters were facing misconduct charges 9:30 – 10:45 a.m. Catholic CCD Children K-12 stemming from allegations of inappropriate relationships and providing prescription drugs and alcohol to minors. 10 a.m. Protestant Adult Bible Study Freaking unsat! I mean there isnʼt anything thatʼs more of a let down Weekday Worship Service: than to see your peers making the wrong decisions and representing the Mon. – Fri. 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass Col. Frank A. Richie Marine Corps in the worst way possible. Mon. 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Praise and Worship Service Commanding Officer So now itʼs 2010, and the new drugs of choice for Marines are spice Wed. 7 p.m. Baptist Service MCAS Miramar and salvia, which have similar effects as marijuana. Currently, these drugs Study Groups: are undetectable by urinalysis tests, but Marines are still getting caught Mon. 7 p.m. Night Bible Study, Classroom in the Chapel Maj. Jay Delarosa using them. area Public Affairs Director At my last command, Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, I wit- Tues. 6 a.m. Morning Prayer Service and Study Group nessed firsthand the consequences Marines faced if found guilty of using Islamic Worship Service: Master Sgt. Robert Knoll spice or salvia. As a staff noncommissioned officer, I have a responsibility Fri. at noon. Public Affairs Chief to uphold the rules and regulations set forth by the Marine Corps so when Located in the Chapel or visit www.icsd.org it came to my attention that my own Marines were involved in suspicious Jewish: Staff Sgt.Christine E. Polvorosa activities related to misconduct and drug use, I did not hesitate to inform Jewish Outreach at 858-571-3444 Internal Information Chief my chain of command. In early March, those Marines received non-judicial punishment, www.jewishinsandiego.org Sgt. Regina N. Cruz which resulted in reduction in rank, forfeiture of pay and an other than Editor honorable discharge from the Marine Corps. What does an OTH mean? According to the Marine Corps Separation Lance Cpl. Zachary Majors and Retirement Manual, Appendix K, an OTH is a huge loss in benefits. Layout and Design Specialist Separated Marines will not be eligible for burial in national cemeteries, the wearing of military uniforms, use of health benefits, access to com- The Flight Jacket is published every Friday. This newspaper is an authorized publication for missary or exchange, use of the Montgomery G.I. Bill, and various other the military services, contents of the Flight Jacket are not programs and assistance. necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, Department of After hearing the punishment you could receive and the benefits you the Navy or U.S. Marine Corps. It is for informational could potentially lose, why would Marines still do drugs? purposes only and in no way should be considered direc- tive in nature. I checked in at MCAS Miramar on March 10 and just like my last The editorial content is edited, prepared and pro- command, Marines here are getting in trouble for spice. vided by the Public Affairs Office. Comments or questions should be directed to 858-577-6000. While itʼs unfortunate that we havenʼt been able to eliminate this problem in the Marine Corps, I am comforted in knowing that Marines are held accountable for their actions, and that their bad decisions are met with severe consequence. Marines, you may think that you can get away with doing drugs, but letʼs be clear. If you are caught, the Marine Corps has zero tolerance for drug use. You will be punished under the Uniformed Code of Military Justice.

www.miramar.usmc.mil May 07, 2010 Flight Jacket Page 2 NEWS

CAREGIVER, in the Global War on Terror ... CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 those warriors ʻat the tip of the spear,ʼ” according to the Op- HMM-268 under new leadership just me asking a buddy ʻHow eration Caregiver Web site. can I make the deployment bet- In addition to sending out ter?ʼ” the supplies, the program also Each care package contains gets feedback from troops who supplies such as cookies, pow- return from deployment to dis- dered drink mix, candy, body cuss what was effi cient and powder, shaving gel, razors, what was not. toothpaste, toothbrush, dental One example of a change fl oss picks, sunblock, chap- was the program originally sent stick, antibiotic ointment, insect containers of fl oss. After speak- repellent and baby wipes. ing to the service members re- They also have entertain- turning from deployment, the ment items such as magazines, volunteers decided to send the books, cards or games and let- fl oss picks instead. ters of encouragement. “The packages will be put Along with the care pack- to good use. The things we are ages, the volunteers sent more sending are practical, but not Lt. Col. Brian E. Bufton Lt. Col. Chad A. Blair than 4,050 pairs of boot socks things that they have just laying OUTGOING COMMANDING OFFICER INCOMING COMMANDING OFFICER in all different sizes. around,” said Elaine Gillum, the “OC provides for basic hy- coordinator of the care package Compiled by Flight Jacket Staff of Arts Degree in Political Science and was commis- giene along with a few items of letters. “For the men and wom- sioned a second lieutenant in 1991. comfort to combat troops de- en over there, itʼs just a small Lt. Col. Brian E. Bufton, the commanding offi cer Bufton then reported to Marine Helicopter Train- ployed to the remotest locations way of saying thank you.” of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268, the “Red ing Squadron 204 aboard MCAS New River, N.C., in Dragons,” relinquished command to Lt. Col. Chad A. February 1994 for initial training in the CH-46E. His Blair in a ceremony aboard Marine Corps Air Station initial duty was with HMM-264 Camp Pendleton April 29. at MCAS New River where he completed two Land- MAG-11 ‘rounds ‘em up’ Lt. Col. Blair graduated from the University of ing Force Sixth Fleet Mediterranean Deployments Kansas, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Jour- with the 26th MEU and Special Purpose Marine Air during readiness party nalism in December 1991. He was commissioned a Ground Task Force to Haiti in support of Operation second lieutenant in the Marine Corps in Uphold Democracy and SPMAGTF Liberia. Lance Cpl. Steven H Posy ployment, explained Langley. 1991 through the Platoon Leaders Course. Following his tour at HMM-264, Bufton reported COMBAT CORRESPONDENT “We want to connect the In January 1995, Blair reported to HMM-163 at to Marine Helicopter Squadron 1 in October 1998. Marine and his family with MCAS Tustin, Calif. During the period, Blair de- He was designated a White House helicopter aircraft A rock climbing wall, Tex- tools and resources to prepare ployed with the 13th and 15th Marine Expeditionary commander in both the VH-3D and VH-60N in No- as Holdʼ em classes, paint ball them for some of the challeng- Units aboard the USS Tarawa and USS Essex. Dur- vember. shooting gallery and free food es of a military lifestyle,” said ing these deployments, he supported Operation Desert In July 2002, he reported to 4th Marine Expe- make for a great party, but the Langley. Strike and Operation Vigilant Sentinel. ditionary Brigade (Anti-Terrorism) aboard Camp most signifi cant aspects of this Many of the representa- In September 2002, after completing refresher Lejeune, N.C., as the air offi cer. Further duties includ- party are the support and en- tives set up displays, attrac- training with HMM(T)-164 in Camp Pendleton, Ca- ed 4th MEB(AT) ground safety offi cer and G-3 Liai- couragement from its provid- tions and food for the families lif., Blair returned to HMM-163, MCAS Miramar, son to the 4th MEB(AT) subordinate commands, and ers. to enjoy. where he served as the assistant maintenance offi cer he completed the Tactical Control Air Party course at Marine Aircraft Group 11 The large rock-climbing and maintenance offi cer. He deployed with the 13th EWTGLANT in May 2003. hosted its readiness roundup wall, paintball shooting gal- MEU, Expeditionary Strike Group One aboard the From June to December 2003, Bufton was the fair here April 23 to support lery and the Game Stop gam- USS Peleliu. During the deployment, Blair supported director of safety and standardization for Marine Air- and educate squadrons about ing area were the most popular Operation Iraqi Freedom in the Al Faw province fol- craft Group 26 aboard MCAS New River. He was then different readiness resources. attractions at the fair. lowed by Operation Enduring Freedom in the Horn reassigned to HMM-264 where he held billets as the The Navy-Marine Corps Overall, the party gener- of Africa. maintenance offi cer and operations offi cer until June Relief Society, Child, Youth ated a good response from the Upon return from deployment, Blair was trans- 2006. During this period, he deployed as the Aviation and Teen Center, The Great Marines and their families. ferred to HMM-165, MCAS Miramar. He deployed Combat Element offi cer in charge for the aviation con- Escape and other service rep- “This is a great turn-out,” with the 15th MEU, ESG-5, aboard the USS Bonhom- tingency MAGTF in support of Operation Secure To- resentatives were on-hand to said Master Sgt. Kevin L. me Richard. During the deployment ,Blair supported morrow in Haiti. He also deployed as the maintenance provide information that can Schulte, a family readiness Operation Unifi ed Assistance in the Aceh province of offi cer for OIF 04-06. help Marines, sailors and their offi cer with Marine Aerial Indonesia followed by Operation Iraqi Freedom in the In July 2006, Bufton reported to Headquarters Ma- families plan for deployment. Refueler Transport Squadron Al Anbar and Baghdad provinces of Iraq. rine Corps, Manpower and Reserve Affairs - Enlisted “We want to raise aware- 352. “I am happy to be here In August 2005, Blair was assigned as a fellow to Assignments, as the enlisted aviation monitor Unit ness and promote personal and serve Marines and their International Business Machines (IBM) in Fairfax, Head and was promoted to his current rank in Janu- and family readiness for the families.” as part of the Commandantʼs National Fel- ary 2007. Marines and families of our Aside from educating the lowship program. After being selected to command HMM-268, Buf- squadrons,” said Katrina Marines and families about the His personal decorations include the Meritori- ton reported to MAG-39 in December 2007. Langley, a family readiness different resources, the party ous Service Medal, Air Medal with Numeral “1”, the His personal decorations include the Meritorious offi cer with MAG-11. was thrown to show them ap- Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Service Medal with Gold Star in lieu of second award, The objective of the fair preciation. three Gold Stars, and the Navy and Marine Corps the Air Medal with strike/fl ight numeral 6, the Navy was to provide different ser- “It is a chance to say thank Achievement Medal. and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy vices that can assist units and you to MAG-11 and recognize Lt. Col. Brian E. Bufton graduated from Randolph- and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various families who are in all stages their hard work and dedica- Macon College in Ashland, Va., earning a Bachelor other personal and unit awards. of deployment and pre-de- tion,” said Langley.

Page 3 Flight Jacket May 07, 2010 www.miramar.usmc.mil FEATURE ‘Falconers’ keep eyes on sky Marine Security Guards travel abroad, protect Story and Photo by Cpl. Justis problems with their electronics and communi- Beauregard cation systems. Although the detachment uses embassies for U.S. advanced technology to track and communicate COMBAT CORRESPONDENT with the aircraft, when those systems go down, they must have multiple back ups. Even if all of CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan – A group of the detachmentʼs computers and communica- Marines helped safely land dozens of aircraft tions systems failed, the Marines could safely here today – theyʼre neither pilots nor crew land aircraft on the runway through visual com- chiefs. munication, like a spotlight. They are the air traffic control Marines of When the wind picks up and pilots finds Marine Air Control themselves in a Squadron 1 (Rein- “brown out,” un- Lance Cpl. forced), the “Falcon- able to see anything Alexandra M. Harris ers,” Detachment A, through the thick COMBAT CORRESPONDENT Marine Air Control clouds of dust com- Group 38 (Forward), monly found in Af- 3rd Marine Aircraft ghanistan, the pilot Even though the Marine Corps “doesnʼt promise you a rose garden,” Wing (Forward), who must trust the Ma- it will guarantee travel and adventure as an incentive. control the airspace rines monitoring the Becoming a Marine Security Guard can be quite a prestigious duty around Dwyer. radar to guide them assignment. They are responsible for the protection of classifi ed infor- “The pilots flying to the ground. mation, property and personnel at more than 120 U.S. Embassies and into Dwyer depend Twenty-four Consulates around the world. on the calm and clear hours a day, seven “Itʼs a good opportunity,” said Sgt. Sangram Gill, a career retention guidance from the days a week, the specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron. “You literally CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan – Staff Sgt. Louie ATC Marines,” said Cruz, an air traffic controller with Marine Air Control ATC Marines must get to travel the world and go places. You meet new people like diplo- Staff Sgt. Louie Cruz, Squadron 1 (Reinforced) the “Falconers,” Detachment be prepared for any- mats and presidents of different countries.” a facility watch officer A, Marine Air Control Group 38 (Forward), 3rd Marine thing. The current MSG program has been around since the Department with the detachment. Aircraft Wing (Forward), looks for an aircraft through “At all times we of State and the Marine Corps signed the joint Memorandum of Agree- ATC Marines are binoculars after it appeared on radar April 26. must be alert and ment in 1948. The Marine Corps assumed the primary training respon- responsible for relaying focused,” said Sgt. sibility of Marine Security Guards in 1954. vital information to pilots during take off, landing Jason Grainger, a radar watch supervisor with Todayʼs screening process has four phases: prerequisites, interviews, and the hours in between when theyʼre fl ying. the detachment. medical screening and fi nal certifi cation from commanding offi cers. Thatʼs just the beginning of the list of chal- If the Marines are complacent and let an air- To start the process, Marines must submit a package through their lenges the ATC Marines face each day. The craft fly over a live range, the results could be career retention specialists. Once submitted, the MSG Security Screen- Marines must memorize massive amounts of disastrous, explained Grainger, a Rockledge, ing Team will interview the Marines and determine whether they meet information including radar systems, the ca- Fla., native. the MSG duty qualifi cations. pabilities of multiple aircraft and the effects “When weather is bad or the aircraft is low Some of the qualifi cations Marines must have are U.S. citizenship, of weather. They work through language and on fuel, the pilot is depending on you to get top secret security clearance, one year of service at current duty station, terminology barriers with coalition forces and him down,” said Cruz, a native of San Diego. the rank of lance corporal and meet Marine Corps weight and fi tness other branches of the United States military. “He is entrusting his life to us.” standards. The Marines have to be able to handle a vari- The MACS-1 detachment Marines are an es- In addition, Marines must have no record of non-judicial punish- ety of situations ranging from aircraft in duress sential piece of a complex puzzle on the flight ment within the last year and have an armed forces vocation aptitude to multiple aircraft operating in the same air- line, which must come together successfully to battery general technical score of at least 90. Sergeants and below must space. ensure aircraft touch down and take off safely be single with no dependents while staff noncommissioned offi cers can The detachment also has to prepare for in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. have up to four dependents. Once selected, the Marines can attend MSG School located at Ma- Cruz contacts a Marine on the rine Corps Base Quantico, Va. flight line with The course is six weeks long for sergeants and below, and eight the radio to con- weeks for SNCOs. The training involves extensive weapons handling, firm an aircraft defensive tactics, response training and interaction with the State De- has landed, April partment. They must be prepared for emergencies such as fi res, bomb 26. An impor- tant part of be- threats, bombs, intruders, riots and demonstrations. ing in the tower Once they graduate, sergeants and below will travel to their posts is adapting to to become watch standers while SNCOs will become detachment com- any problems manders. Sergeants and below will have two 12 to 15-month tours and that may arise to SNCOs will have two 16 to 18-month accompanied tours. keep the aircrew and aircraft safe. Marine Corps Air Station Miramar will hold an MSG screening and brief at Building 8671 May 10 and 11 at 7:45 a.m. The brief will pro- vide more information on MSG duty. “If you lack (motivation), then youʼre not going to make it,” said Gill. “Do what youʼre supposed to do. Stay competitive and get every- thing done like your (Marine Corps Institute education tests). Basically, just be a Marine.” For more information on MSG duty, contact your career retention specialist. www.miramar.usmc.mil May 07, 2010 Flight Jacket Page 4 FEATURE MCX goes to the ‘extreme’ to appeal to marines “We may only be working our Marine jobs once a month, but when we deploy, there’s no dif- ference between us and

Rich Kearns, a freestyle Moto- cross rider per- forms a mid-air stunt after taking off from a large ramp at the Marine Corps Ex- change parking lot here Story and photos by breath-taking back fl ips and oth- May 3. Lance Cpl. Steven H. Posy er aerial stunts off a large ramp COMBAT CORRESPONDENT before a crowd of spectators. The motocross event pro- The Marine Corps Exchange moted by Monster energy drinks Danielle Korman, a Lady Gaga impersonator, performs a song to kick off the annual Marine Corps Exchange Retail Conference at the Offi cer’s Club here May 3. The week-long conference went “Gaga” at the Offi cerʼs was the highlight of the confer- was the fi rst MCX Retail Conference held at a Marine Corps installation. Club here May 3 during the an- ence and drew a lot of attention. nual MCX Retail Conference. “I was looking forward to Rich Kearns, Matt The conference was kicked coming out here and riding for Buyten and Adam Jones, off by a performance by a Lady the troops,” said Matt Buyten, a professional freestyle Gaga impersonator as vendors freestyle motocross profession- Motocross riders greet and representatives from dif- al. “Itʼs nice to be able to give Marine, sailors and ferent Marine Corps Installa- something back to them.” civilians in the Marine Corps Exchange parking tions gathered at the OʼClub to A lot of planning went into lot here May 3. The riders discuss marketing strategies and this yearʼs conference and from visited the air station as brands that appeal to young Ma- a business stand point, marketing part of the Annual MCX rines. is the biggest part of the confer- Retail Conference. “The different representa- enceʼs success, explained Gun- tives are here to re-cap our nery Sgt. Andrew J. McDermott, previous year, re-visit our divi- a Marine Corps Community sion strategies, come up with Services specialist with Marine new ideas and stay informed on Corps Air Station Buford, S.C. whatʼs ahead in promoting the “This conference gets better MCX brand” said Chief Warrant and more innovative each year,” Offi cer 2 Keith A. Washington, said Washington. “We are mar- the Marine Corps Commu- keting for our younger demo- nity Services occupational fi eld graphic.” sponsor at Headquarters Ma- The Motocross event is a rine Corps, Marine Corps Base huge marketing strategy that Quantico, Va. started back in 2007, explained The conference moved out McDermott. This event marked of the Oʼ Club and into the MCX the fi rst year that the conference parking lot, where three moto- was held at a Marine Corps in- cross professionals performed stallation.

Page 5 Flight Jacket April 16, 2010 www.miramar.usmc.mil www.miramar.usmc.mil April 16, 2010 Flight Jacket Page 6 SPORTS Top contenders can’t agree on $40 million dollar fight

Floyd Mayweather is a great defensive boxer who is strong, one wants to see, and for a while, it was unclear as to why these fast and difficult to hit, but is he also dodging a good fight? two wouldnʼt fight, which raised an interesting question. Although Shane Mosley was once an outstanding champion at Is Mayweather ducking Pacquiao? The answer is no. Pacquiao the top of the middleweight division, his best days have passed, is the one ducking and dodging here. and he posed no threat to the undefeated Mayweather in their Pacquiao, who is now running for political office in the Phil- fight May 1. ippines, has refused to adhere to the United States Anit-Doping The 38-year-old Mosley challenged Floyd in the second round Agencyʼs testing policy. He has requested that urine and blood with a big right hand, which seemed to do nothing more than stir testing be stopped 24 days prior to the fight. up the crowd and Mayweatherʼs resolve. Maybe Pacquiao is better off running for office and away From the third through the 12th round, the fight became ex- from the pounding that he would receive from Mayweather. tremely one sided in the championʼs favor. Pacquiao has argued that two weeks prior to a fight is too By the fifth round, Mosley looked exhausted from chasing close the fight date to take a drug test. This is absurd unless he Mayweather around the ring and trying to land punches. It be- is on something that he shouldnʼt be taking. Many athletes are came very obvious early on that he did not have a chance. issued random drug tests on the day of competition. Why does he This was a highly anticipated fight, but for what reason? need 24 days? Something does not add up here. Floyd Mayweather has already proven that he is the man to beat, The purse from this fight was expected to exceed $40 million, Lance Cpl. Steven H. Posy and Mosleyʼs time as a valid contender has passed. but it never happened. COMBAT CORRESPONDENT Perhaps the fans have settled for what ever they can get out of Instead, the fans of the boxing world were given a cheap the undefeated champion, since they were denied a blockbuster imitation of a mega-fight that everyone wanted to see. Thanks Editorʼs note: Lance Cpl. Posy fight against Manny Pacquiao. once again to Oscar De La Hoya and Golden Boy productions for is a regular contributor to the Pacquiao has recently destroyed his last few opponents and is another promotional charade. Maybe one day we will be able to sports section of the Flight the top contender to fight the champ. This is the fight that every- see a good fight, maybe not. Jacket and an avid sports fan. Marine ‘catches’ attention for fishing talent

Story and Photos by of Marines. “We fish with lance corporals Lance Cpl. Steven H. Posy to retired majors who fought in COMBAT CORRESPONDENT the Korean and Vietnam wars,” said Melrose. “We have guys When everyone goes to the who are 20 years old and guys mess hall for afternoon chow, who are 80 years old. They are a one Marine takes this opportunity fun group to fish with.” to drive down to the fish pond to Melrose explained that he catch some fish. fishes twice a week on average Melrose makes an underhand cast at the fish pond. Sgt. Jacob D. Melrose, an throughout the year and four armorer with Headquarters and times a week during the spring Headquarters Squadron here, has and summer months. He fishes a passion for fishing that goes far for freshwater and saltwater fish. beyond that of an average angler. According to Melrose, tuna is his “Some people fish for recre- favorite gamefish. ation or for sport, but for Mel- “I get a rush from fishing in rose, fishing is a way of life,” general, but even more so from said Cpl. Brandon M. Little, an catching tuna,” said Melrose. armorer with H&HS. As an avid sports fisherman, The young sergeant began Melrose studies weather patterns, fishing at three years old and fish behaviors and the geography Melrose holds a Largemouth Bass caught never stopped. His love for fish- of local water. He also has ap- at the fish pond. ing has grown into more than just plied science to fishing and does a hobby, as Melrose now fishes so to catch more fish. in prize tournaments where his His expertise led him to earn fishing skills earned him a spon- a sponsorship through a local bait sorship with a local tackle shop. and tackle shop, which earns him “I began fishing in tourna- free fishing gear, clothing and ments when I was 16,” said discounts on other tackle. Melrose. “It was the next step up For those Marines who enjoy

from recreational angling.” spending some of their spare Cpl. Christopher A. O’Quin Melrose is part of the Camp time fishing, Melrose stands out Sgt. Jacob D. Melrose, an armorer with Headquarters and Pendleton Bass Anglerʼs Club, as an angler who lives to fish Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Melrose reels in a lure at the fish pond 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, cast a which consists of active-duty and looks to perfect the science here. Marines, retirees and dependents behind the sport. line at the fish pond here April 16.

Page 7 Flight Jacket May 07, 2010 www.miramar.usmc.mil NEWS

friday saturday sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

• 8-Ball Pool Tournament for • 7 Habits of Highly Effective • *Motherʼs Day Brunch • Alcoholics Anonymous and • QOL Golf • L.I.N.K.S. Mentor • Choose to Lose Program Enlisted Active Duty Military Families 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Al-Anon Meetings Two Hours After Twilight Training – Work Out with a Trainer, 7:30 p.m. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Officersʼ Club 6:30 p.m., Starts FREE Golf for Miramar 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. The Great Escape MCFTB Conference Room 858-577-4808 Counseling Center Active Duty L.I.N.K.S. House Semper Fit Center 858-577-6171 858-577-1322 for reservations 858-577-6585 858-577-4155 858-577-4810 858-577-4674

• 9-Ball Pool Tournament for Paintball Mega • Adecco Staffing Agency Visit • FREE Golf Clinic for •SMP Commissary Awareness Month “Blast • Now – May 14 Enlisted Active Duty Arena open every 9 a.m. -12 p.m. Active Duty Youth Flag Football 7:30 p.m. MCCS free prize Career Resource Center 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. from the Past” Registration for 5-16 year olds The Great Escape Saturday and 858-577-6710 Golf Course, 858-577-4155 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Youth Beach Volleyball 858-577-6171 giveaways... Sunday from 10 a.m. 858-577-6171 8-16 years old Entertainment Ticket to 5 p.m. east of the •L.I.N.K.S. Mentor Training •Life Skills Class “Credit Youth Cheerleading Office Miramar Inn 619- 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. • Career Resource Center 5-13 year olds, L.I.N.K.S. House “Federal Jobs & Management” Youth Golf Lessons ITT/Travel Office: 228-4446. 858-577-4810 to register Applications” 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 8-16 year olds Medieval Times Gift 1-3:30 p.m., The Hub Room LINKS House for more information contact Pack. Stop in and Shop at the MCX • Choose to Lose Program 132, 858-577-6710 858-577-4473 to register 858-577-6959 – Work Out with a Trainer Exceptional Family fill out an entry form Motherʼs Day Sale 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., Semper Fit Member Center, 858-577-4674 today! Winners will Aril 28 – May 9 ADHD Training Series be drawn on May 28. (Part 2 of 3) Just for Mom • New Parent Support 6 - 8 p.m. Fragrance Sale Play Morning LINKS House April 28 – May 9 9:30 – 11 am 858-577-4668 • Sports Complex Marine Teen training Tues. & Sat. 858-577-4128/4129 Milcon Park • Deployment support for preschoolers, elementary and teenagers Mon. 858-577-9812 through Wed. 858-577-4588 • S.E.A.M.S. Meeting, • QOL Golf: Two Hours After Twilight free Golf for Active Duty 12 – 1 p.m., The Hub 858-577-4155 858-577-6491

MOTHERʼS DAY BRUNCH AT THE OFFICERSʼ CLUB Do you want to do something special for your mom this year? Head over to the Officersʼ Club for a great Motherʼs Day Brunch. This brunch will be held on Sunday, May 9 from 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. There are three separate seating times and reservations are required. Call 858-577-4808 for reservations and visit www.mccsmiramar.com/pdfs/mothersdaybrunch_ 2010.pdf for more information and to view the menu.

SMP COMMISSARY AWARENESS MONTH “BLAST FROM THE PAST” Stop by the Commissary on Thursday, May 13 from 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. for “Blast from the Past”. This event is FREE to all Single Service Members and Geo-Bachelors.. There will be Jeopardy, Supermarket Sweep and a Price Comparison Contest. Will your unit win? Call 858-577-6171 for more information.

LIFE SKILLS CLASS – CREDIT MANAGEMENT Using your credit wisely is a concern to all. This 60-90 minute course is designed to help participants understand and use their credit wisely, establish and maintain a good credit rating and avoid excess debt. The “Credit Management” brief will be held on Thursday, May 13 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Personal or Group Briefings are available. The class will be held in the L.I.N.K.S. House and will include lunch. Call 858-577-4473 to register.

Fri. May 7: Get help paying for child care features 18 holes of golf, a Bar-B-Q lunch the Department of Defense. To submit The Bounty Hunter (PG-13) 6:30 p.m. Visit the National Association of Child and many chances to win great prizes. To a suggestion visit the ICE Web site at Sheʼs Out of My League (R) 9:00 p.m. Care Resource and Referral Agencies register or for more information contact http://ice.disa.mil. Sat. May 8: Web site at www.naccrra.org to see Gunnery Sgt. Guadalupe Erevia or Sgt. How to Train Your Dragon (Not in 3-D) (PG) 6:30 p.m. information on eligibility for assistance Zachary Denning at 858-577-6425. All UCSD IR/PS Masters Degree Diary of a Wimpy Kid (PG) 9:00 p.m. to pay for and find child care services. proceeds from the tournament go to the The University of California San Sun. May 9: Contact 1-800-424-2246 for more 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing birthday ball Diego IR/PS, has visiting hours on *Alice in Wonderland (Not in 3-D) (PG) 1:00 p.m. information. committee. MCAS Miramar from 3:30 to 5 p.m. *Green Zone (R) 6:30 p.m. ICE ready for use on the second and fourth Monday and Wed. May 12: 2nd Annual MCBB Golf The Interactive Customer Evaluation Wednesday of each month. UCSD offers The Ghost Writer (PG-13) 6:30 p.m. Tournament set up for Miramar is ready for use. ICE a one year Master of Advanced Studies Thurs. May 13: On May 28 the Sea Nʼ Air Golf Course is the internet version of the “Customer in International Affairs Executive The Last Song (PG) 2:00 p.m. aboard Naval Air Station North Island Suggestion Box” and is a Web-based degree. For more information visit Dana *Remember Me (PG-13) 6:30 p.m. will be hosting the second annual MCBB tool that collects feedback on services Tucker at the Education Center on the Golf Tournament. The tournament provided by installations throughout above days or call her at 858-822-4398. *Indicates Last Showing

www.miramar.usmc.mil May 07, 2010 Flight Jacket Page 8 Military Tuner Challenge An auto, after-market design contest open to teams consisting primarily of active duty service members Timeline and Overview who compete for SCION to fund the build-out of their ideal SCION xB, for a team’s all expenses paid trip to Las Vegas, and for cash prize money for the CONCEPTUAL DESIGN PHASE & team and Auto Hobby Shop. TEAM ASSEMBLY May 3 - June 11 ON BASE: PROGRAM LAUNCHES May 3, 2010 • Email Blasts • Signage •Website Advertising • Handbills • Press Release •Military Websites • Military Trade Publications •Single Service Member Programs •Auto Hobby Shop Mgr. Support •Facebook Fans

THROUGH ON BASE AUTO SKILLS CENTERS:

•Teams of 6 Members (min.) Get Together to Formulate Their Design... •Leader Designer •Proposal Writer •Wrench Turners •Networkers •Teams Download Tuner Challenge Info Pack, e. g. www.scion.com/tuner •Teams Submit Formal Build Templates Online (Microsoft Office Software) •All teams get a SCION Tuner Challenge T-Shirt

VOTING & JUDGINGJune 16–30 •Interested Observers Who Register Can Review and Vote for 3 Designs •Proposals will be displayed branch and base blind. •3 Best Designs will demonstrate Individualism, Popularity, and Tuner Passion calculated in accordance with rules and scorecard. For more information and a full listing of rules and regulations visit www.scion.com/tuner Page 9 Flight Jacket April 30, 2010 www.miramar.usmc.mil