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AT WAR W ITH A NEW GENERATION OF HEROES • INCLUDES PULLOUT POSTER
SUROBI, Afghanistan – Marines from I Co., 3rd Bn., 6th Marines, conduct a security patrol here May 23, 2004. The Surobi District is about 28 miles east of Kabul. The battalion is in the region to support Operation Enduring Freedom. Photo by Lance Corporal Justin M. Mason
OnPoint AR RAMADI, Iraq –
Cpl. Michael P. Calhoun patrols a parking lot outside of a bank here with other Marines of the headquarters element June 28, 2004. The Marines provided security for the regiment's Civil Affairs Group in anticipation of an attack while picking up money to pay Iraqi Security Forces for the month of June. Calhoun is a native of Canon City, Colo., with Regimental Combat Team 7.
Photo by Cpl. Macario P. Mora Jr.
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Forward Deployed 4 | Back in Iraq In Operation Iraqi Freedom II, Marines perform security and stability operations to help the Iraqi people reclaim their country.
16 | Other Hot Spots Iraq dominates the headlines, but is not the only place Marines have landed in the past year. In Afghanistan and other countries, Marines continue the mission of Operation Enduring Freedom and help preserve democracy.
22 | Exercises Around the World From right next door in Canada to distant places like Bangledash, Marines train to improve their skills and increase their abilities to work with the armed forces of other nations.
30 | Unit Breakdown CAMP KOREAN VILLAGE, Iraq – Lance Cpl. Joshua G. Zervakos, a truck driver with Combat Service Support Company 117, keeps an eye on the perimeter while stopped during a convoy May 13, 2004. With the risk of enemy attack present, members of the convoy must stay alert. The company, which is part of Combat Service Support Battalion 7, 1st Force Service Support Group, runs regular convoys to camps throughout western Iraq. Zervakos, 19, is from Selbyville, Del. Photo by Sgt. Matt Epright
Marines are organized into Marine Air Ground Task Forces comprised of ground, aviation, combat service support and command elements. MAGTFs are tailored for specific missions and can be restructured as situations change.
Semper Fidelis 1
“ There’s no one who doesn’t get a little nervous and scared when out there clearing a minefield. But if you take your time and do it right, then you’ll be OK.” — Lance Cpl. Jason J. Gibbs,
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Combat Engineer, Combat Service Support Bn. 7, 1st Force Service Support Group, Sept. 4, 2004
The Corps’ Official Magazine Special Issue • Summer 2004 www.usmc.mil/marinesmagazine
Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Michael W. Hagee Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. John L. Estrada M A R I N E
In Garrison
C O R P S
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Editor-in-Chief Lt. Col. Greg Reeder Managing Editor Gunnery Sgt. Glenn Holloway
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Associate Editor Staff Sgt. Cindy Fisher
While Marine units are deployed abroad, life continues at the bases, camps and stations Marines and their families call home.
Associate Editor Staff Sgt. David L. Crockett P U B L I C A T I O N
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42 | Home Training It’s the continuous training at home that prepares Marines for the situations they face when deployed.
Marines (USPS 013-867) is published seven times annually (quarterly, plus three special editions) by the Division of Public Affairs, Marine Corps News Branch, HQMC, U.S. Marine Corps (PA) 3000 Marine Corps Pentagon, Washington D.C. 20350-3000. Periodicals-class postage paid at Washington, D.C., and additional mailing stations. The Secretary of the Navy has determined that this publication is necessary in the transaction of business, required by law, of the Department of the Navy. Funds for printing this publication have been approved by the Navy Publications and Printing Policy Committee. All photos not credited are official USMC photos. Postmaster: Send change of address to: Marines, Commandant of the Marines Corps, Headquarters Marine Corps, U.S. Marine Corps (PA), 3000 Marine Corps Pentagon, Washington D.C. 203503000 or e-mail to mcnews@hqmc.usmc.mil. Reader Comments: Marines, Marines, Commandant of the Marines Corps, Headquarters Marine Corps, U.S. Marine Corps (PA), 3000 Marine Corps Pentagon, Washington D.C. 203503000 or e-mail to mcnews@hqmc.usmc.mil.
In Town | 48 Marines make their mark at home as well as abroad. At ball games and community events, through individual volunteering and unit efforts, Marines maintain a tradition of involvement in local communities.
S U B S C R I P T I O N
52 | Fallen Brothers-In-Arms From Jan. 9, 2002 to Sept. 20, 2004, 267 Marines made the ultimate sacrifice in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom I and II. Marines honors these fallen brothers-in-arms.
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Official DoD Units (Marine & Non-Marine): Send a fax, letter, or e-mail requesting an individual activity code to: Commandant of the Marines Corps, Headquarters Marine Corps, U.S. Marine Corps (PA), 3000 Marine Corps Pentagon, Washington D.C. 20350-3000. The letter must contain a complete mailing address, point of contact, phone number, and number of copies required. Fax the request to 703/692-1814. E-mail: mcnews@hqmc.usmc.mil. Personal/Civilian Subscriptions: Request your one-year subscription from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Personal subscriptions can be ordered via the Internet at www.usmc.mil/order, or by calling 202/512-1800.
SoundOff The Mission Continues – At Home and Abroad
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From the Editor
Photo by Cpl. Shawn C. Rhodes
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Summer 2004
On the Cover FALLUJAH, Iraq — Pfc. James Cardenas provides security over a berm here April 12, 2004. Marines assaulted the city April 6 to oust terrorists hold up inside. Cardenas’ twin brother Pfc. Aaron Cardenas is also serving in Fallujah. Both, 20-year-olds from Monterrey Park, Calif., are infantrymen assigned to A. Co., 1st Bn., 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division. James is an assistant machine gunner with 1st Squad, 3rd Platoon, and Aaron has the same duty for 2nd Squad.
Portraits of Patriotism
MAHMUDIYAH, Iraq – An M-1A1 Abrams tank crew settles in for the evening during a patrol June 27, 2004. The crew, with B Co., 1st Tank Bn., 1st Marine Division, is attached to 2nd Bn., 2nd Marines, to provide security on a supply route. The tanks have been keeping the supply routes near Camp Mahmudiyah open allowing supplies to make their way into major cities like Baghdad and Fallujah. The tanks are key tools to the success of that mission because of their presence, their firepower and the punishment they can take.
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N NAJAF, FALLUJAH, AL ASAD, AD DIWANIYAH, ABU GHRAIB, An Nasiriyah, Kandahar, Khas Uruzgan, Bagram, Kabul-most Marines had never heard of these cities and towns in Iraq and Afghanistan before Sept. 11, 2001. But now thousands of Marines are intimately familiar with these places. They have patrolled the dusty, sand-swept streets in the towns of Iraq and searched through the rocky caverns around the villages of Afghanistan. They have shed blood and lost brothers-in-arms in these once unknown places. Though major combat operations ended more than a year ago, Marines are still engaged in battle in Iraq. They made headlines in An Najaf and Fallujah. Marines skirmish with insurgents throughout the Al Anbar province. They wage quiet battles in forgotten corners such as Qaim and Ar Ramadi. The goal of Operation Iraqi Freedom II is the security and stabilization of Iraq. But it has been a costly goal for the Marine Corps-more Marines have died in this operation than in the first OIF. The goal does remain clear, to help this war-torn country rebuild and become self-governing. Marines continue to offer humanitarian aid, rebuild schools and train the Iraqi people to defend themselves. Despite continued insurgent resistance, Marines are working with the newly formed Iraqi government to determine the best courses of action in Iraq. The Marine presence is also felt in Afghanistan. The 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit conducted numerous operations in south-central Afghanistan aimed at disrupting Taliban and anti-coalition faction activity in the region. The North Carolina-based 6th Marine Regiment continues to root out the Taliban threat in this country. And Marines have been in other countries defending democracy. When trouble arose in hot spots such as Liberia and Haiti, Marines answered the call and journeyed to Monrovia and Port Au Prince. In Lungi, Lemonier, Arta and Djibouti City, Marines work as part of Task Force – Horn of Africa. In exercises around the world, Marines continue to hone their skills so that we remain most ready when the nation is least ready. From the jungles of Cobra Gold in Thailand to the snowy climate of Clean Hunter in Denmark, Marines train in every clime and place. As Marines deploy around the globe, life must go on for those left behind in garrison. Those at stateside bases and air stations and those in Japan train at home in preparation for deployment and support of those already deployed. Kids go to school and spouses care for the home front. Marines and family members mourn those lost in combat and rejoice when units return home. This “Portraits of Patriotism” issue of Marines focuses on Marine Corps operations during the last year and the new generation of heroes – at home and abroad – who helped make those operations successful.
Semper Fi, Marines
Photo by Cpl. Matthew J. Apprendi
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BackinIraq
May 1, 2003 President Bush, aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, proclaims major combat operations over in Iraq. The search for mass weapons in Iraq begins.
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May 1, 2003 The Navy leaves its bases on Vieques, Puerto Rico, where it has trained for the past 60 years.
May 2, 2003 Basra International Airport in Iraq hosts its first civilian flight since the war in Iraq began.
CAMP MAHMUDIYAH, Iraq – Thanks to a detachment of rolling steel from B Co., 1st Tank Bn., from Camp Lejeune, N.C., the roads near Mahmudiyah are safer for 2nd Bn., 2nd Marines. The 70-ton M-1A1 Abrams tanks and their crews were attached to the regiment to protect roads and bridges and secure supply lines. This allows supplies to make their way into major cities like Baghdad and Fallujah. The tanks’ firepower and ability to withstand punishment make them key to the mission’s success. Photo by Cpl. Shawn C. Rhodes
Marine Profile: Sgt. Phillip G. Zacher CAMP TAQADDUM, Iraq – Sgt. Phillip G. Zacher, 31, from Fenton, Mo., designed and welded the turret shield of this humvee. Zacher, a vehicle maintenance chief for 3rd Bn., 24th Marines, drew on his welding experience to create shields that protect Marines manning vehicle-mounted machine guns from enemy fire and explosives. His impressed commanders asked him to perform the seven-hour procedure on 20 other humvees. The Marine Corps is currently fielding officially tested versions of the turret shield to outfit its vehicles in Iraq. Photo by Lance Cpl. Samuel Bard Valliere
May 4, 2003 Marines from Truck Co., Headquarters Bn., 4th Marine Division, arrive in Kuwait to join others from their unit to help with rebuilding operations in Iraq.
May 6, 2003 The 10 postal Marines at Camp Edson in Ad Diwaniyah have delivered more than 145 20-foot containers full of mail in the last three weeks to the nearly 25,000 Marines of the 1st Marine Division and 1st Force Service Support Group in Iraq.
May 6, 2003 President Bush appoints former U.S. State Department official Paul Bremer as chief administrator in Iraq.
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BUSH DECLARED AN end to major combat operations May 1, 2003, but by no means was the Corps’ job done. The 70,000 Marines deployed to the region now had to help rebuild this oppressed country with the eventual goal of returning its governance to its people. Now came the overwhelming task of cleaning up the debris of war. Marines began deactivating the thousands of tons of mines, rockets and ammunition that littered the landscape of southern Iraq. They helped restore the power and water. They rebuilt schools and police sta-
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tions. Marines patrolled streets, rounding up suspected Ba’ath Party members and illegal munitions. They provided humanitarian aid, passing out water and other needed items. They helped provide needed medical and dental care. In June 2003, Marine units began retrograding back to camps in Kuwait in preparation to return to the United States. Throughout the summer, Marines turned over their areas of responsibility to various Coalition Forces and the U.S. Army. The last Marine battalion in southern Iraq, 1st Bn., 7th Marines, transferred authority to the Plus Ultra
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KARBALA, Iraq – Sgt. Maj. Richard Lamelin, 41, from Desert Hot Springs, Calif., 3rd Bn., 7th Marines sergeant major, and Lt. Col. Matthew A. Lopez, 39, from Naperville, Ill., battalion commanding officer, lead Marines, sailors, and soldiers on a two-mile motivational run July 4, 2003. Iraqis lined the streets, cheered and even joined in as the service members ran through the city to kick off their Independence Day celebrations. Photo by Lance Cpl Nathan Alan Heusdens
May 8, 2003 Kut Cemetery, believed to be the final resting place for soldiers who fought in World War I, is restored and rededicated by Marines from Service Plt., 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade Headquarters Group, in Al Kut, Iraq.
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By Staff Sgt. Cindy Fisher HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS, Washington
Spanish Brigade in An Najaf Sept. 23, 2003, and prepared to head home. Even then, the job was not done. All the equipment, vehicles and gear used during Operation Iraqi Freedom had to be inspected and repaired. The gear offloaded from Maritime Pre-positioning Force ships in Kuwait for use in Iraq had to be refurbished and reloaded onto MPF ships. Less than a month after the Corps’ departure, Marines were again told to prepare to return to Iraq. Hundreds of Marines received Arabic language training. Marines learned more about the Arabic culture and the Islamic religion in preparation for their new roles in security and stability operations. By January 2004, Marines were heading back to the sands and heat of Operation Iraqi Freedom II and in March, Marines accepted responsibility for Al Anbar Province from the Army. But this new mission has not been easy. In Fallujah and Najaf Marines are engaged in the heaviest and most deadly fighting they have seen since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Despite fighting with insurgents, the approximately 30,000 Marines in country are back to work with the mission of security and stability. They are training Iraqis as police officers and helping to rebuild the Iraqi National Guard. They are clearing pockets of insurgent resistance. They are handing out school supplies, water, food, clothing and performing myriad other tasks associated with rebuilding the country and its government. They are getting the job done.
May 9, 2003 The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band, in Kuwait since Feb. 10, 2003, is the first Marine band to play in the newly liberated Iraq with an hour-long concert for troops on Saddam Hussein’s former palace grounds in An Hillah.
May 13, 2003 1st Force Service Support Group heads a construction project to repair looter-damaged Al Qadisiyah University in Ad Diwaniyah, Iraq.
KHALDIYA, Iraq – Military police from Marine Wing Support Squadron 374, Marine Wing Support Group 37, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, take cover as explosive ordnance disposal technicians detonate an improvised explosive device here May 29, 2004. The Marines worked with Iraqi police to safely detonate the device without causing harm to personnel, equipment or civilians. Photo by Cpl. Chance W. Haworth
Marine Profile: Lance Cpl. Abdul Salaam Muhammad PAK THONG CHAI, Thailand –
Lance Cpl. Abdul Salaam Muhammad, L Co., 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines, Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, takes a break from the 240G machine gun live-fire training at the Combined Arms Range here. Muhammad is deployed in support of Cobra Gold 2004. More than 13,500 U.S. service members participated in the exercise alongside 5,000 members of the Royal Thai Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force.This is the first time that Mongolia and the Philippines have participated in a Cobra Gold exercise. Cobra Gold 2004 is a combined-joint exercise designed to improve the combat readiness and interoperability of U.S., Thai, Singaporean, Mongolian and Philippine militaries.The exercise also enhances security relationships and demonstrates U.S. resolve to support the security and humanitarian interests of friends and allies in the Asia-Pacific region. Photo by Air Force Master Sgt. James E. Lotz
May 15, 2003 Iraq’s southern port of Umm Qasr, which the British hands over to a temporary 12-member Iraqi council, becomes the first city to be governed by Iraqis since the war ended.
May 14, 2003 Seventeen Iraqis and two Jordanians file a suit in a Belgian court charging Gen. Tommy Franks, the commander of U.S. troops in Iraq, with war crimes.
May 16, 2003 Conan O’Brien visits the Marines of 1st Force Service Support Group at Camp Matilda, Kuwait.
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BackinIraq www.usmc.mil Portraits of Patriotism •
Summer 2004
AL ANBAR PROVINCE, Iraq — Petty Officer 3rd Class Stanley M. Duing, a corpsman with 3rd Bn., 24th Marines, from Cadet, Mo., checks an Iraqi child’s sore throat during a visit to a village west of Fallujah, April 22, 2004. Members of the battalion visited the village to provide children shoes and school supplies, as well as basic medical check-ups. Friends and family members of the battalion’s Marines and sailors donated the shoes and school supplies. The battalion provides security for 1st Force Service Support Group at Camp Taqaddum, and has conducted several visits to surrounding communities in hopes of building a positive rapport with the local population. Photo by Sgt. Matt Epright
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq – Sailors poised on the outskirts of the restive town of Fallujah are providing “good medicine in a bad place” during Operation Vigilant Resolve, April 5, 2004. After caring for eight wounded Marines, the doctors, nurses and corpsmen of Bravo Surgical Co., 1st Medical Bn., 1st Force Service Support Group, were interrupted in the middle of a debrief with news that more wounded were arriving. Despite the persistent distraction of indirect fire, the surgical company remained at their task tending wounded Marines. Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Claudia LaMantia
May 19, 2003 The Marines of 1st Force Service Support Group Explosive Ordnance Disposal Platoon, a 30-person unit, begin the overwhelming job of deactivating the thousands of tons of mines, rockets, and ammunition that are part of the battle debris inundating every neighborhood and community in southern Iraq.
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May 27, 2003 In Toronto, 12 days after the World Health Organization removed the city from the list of areas with a danger of infection, new cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome are reported.
KARBALA, Iraq – Marines, sailors, soldiers and Karbala firefighters battle a fire along the crude oil pipeline west of here from late afternoon into the night Aug. 1, 2003. Terrorists started the fire by shooting two rocket-propelled grenades at the pipeline. After five hours working around and within the inferno, the fire was mostly contained. Photo by Lance Cpl. Nathan Alan Heusden
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, Iraq – Pfc. Quinton D. Graves, a 19-year-old from Salt Lake City, assigned to G Co., 2nd Bn., 4th Marines, is the first in the 1st Marine Division to be awarded the Purple Heart twice during this deployment to Iraq. Graves was wounded first on March 13, 2004, after being struck by an improvised explosive device and was wounded again April 7, 2004, by shrapnel from a grenade. In all, 554 Purple Hearts have been awarded throughout the 1st Marine Division, with six Marines earning the award twice. Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Mark Oliva
Marine Profile: Pfc. Quinton D. Graves
June 3, 2003 Marines and other U.S. troops share a night of laughter at a stand-up comedy show in Kuwait, courtesy of the United Service Organizations and Marine Aircraft Group 39.
June 5, 2003 1st Force Service Support Group Marines at Camp Bobo, Kuwait, begin retrograding all gear and accounting for all equipment used to support the war effort and I Marine Expeditionary Force’s movement toward Baghdad, Iraq.
June 7, 2003 Marines and Sailors help rehabilitate the Nebuchadnezzar Museum located near the ruins of Babylon in Iraq.
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Marine Profile: Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian Dessel FORWARD OPERATING BASE RIPLEY, Afghanistan – Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian Dessel, a hospital corpsman assigned to Bn. Landing Team, 1st Bn., 6th Marines, shows where a Taliban bullet grazed his helmet while he was treating a wounded Marine June 8, 2004. Deployed to Afghanistan with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), the Pennsylvania native was with BLT 1/6’s Combined Anti-Armor Team during several fierce firefights.
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Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Keith A. Milks
CAMP TAQQADAM, Iraq – Staff Sgt. Joshua Potter, a UH-1N Huey crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 775, Marine Aircraft Group 16, and a native of Placerville, Calif., reads a book inside his Huey between missions here April 28, 2004. The activated reserve squadron has been conducting security escort and close air support missions since arriving in Iraq earlier this year. Photo by Cpl. Matthew J. Apprendi
June 8, 2003 An Iraqi student rings a new bell, presented by 1st Marine Division to mark the completion of three newly renovated public school buildings. Army, Marine and Navy forces renovated the three schools, which serve 1,200 school children in Ad Diwaniyah, Iraq.
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June 10, 2003 Mars Exploration Rover Spirit blasts off from Cape Canaveral, Fla. It should reach Mars in 2004 and will explore the planet’s surface.
June 9, 2003 Marines from Weapons Co., 2nd Bn., 25th Marines, work to rebuild three schools for children in An Nasiriyah, Iraq.
CAMP HURRICANE POINT, Iraq – Sgt. Michael M. Williams, a squad leader with 3rd Mobile Assault Plt., Mobile Assault Co., 2nd Bn., 4th Marines, listens to words about his friend Sgt. Kenneth K. Conde Jr., at a memorial service July 7, 2004. Conde, a 23-year-old from Orlando, Fla., was killed after an improvised explosive device attack during a patrol through the heart of Ar Ramadi. Photo by Cpl. Paula M. Fitzgerald
FALLUJAH, Iraq – Capt. Doug Zembiec, the commanding officer of E Co., 2nd Bn., 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division, gives orders to his men over a radio prior to leaving their compound for a short patrol here April 8, 2004. The company entered the city April 6, to begin the effort of destroying enemy holds in the city. Photo by Sgt. Jose E. Guillen
AL KABANE, Iraq – Maj. Rollin F. Jackson, commanding officer of Weapons Co., 3rd Bn., 24th Marines, delivers shoes to children here April 22, 2004, during a civil military operation. More than 3,000 reserve Marines support I Marine Expeditionary Force's mission of conducting security and stabilization operations. The largest unit representing the reserves, 3rd Bn., 24th Marines, from Bridgeton, Mo., spearheaded force protection at four bases for I MEF; Camp Fallujah, Al Asad, Taqaddam and Abu Ghraib prison. Photo by Sgt. Matt Epright
June 21, 2003 1st Bn., 4th Marines and Army civil affairs officials coordinate a job fair that draws thousands of residents to an Al Hillah, Iraq, soccer field in search of work.
June 17, 2003 Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Michael W. Hagee addresses Marines, sailors and soldiers assigned to I Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Babylon, Iraq.
June 21, 2003 Marines of F Co., 2nd Bn., 25th Marines, lead a raid on Saraj Market, a suspected arms market in An Nasiriyah, Iraq, netting one unregistered AK-47 rifle and hundreds of rounds of illegal munitions.
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Marine Profile: Staff Sgt. John B. Noel MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO – Staff Sgt. John B. Noel, a drill instructor with Plt. 2079, H Co., credits his ability to take on and overcome challenges to his success in life and on the drill field. Noel’s mother died when he was five and he went to live with his godparents on the Caribbean Island of St. Lucia. It was an experience that taught him nothing should be taken for granted and there are no second chances in life, said Noel. The driving force behind Noel’s passion of transforming young men into Marines is his desire to be a positive influence in the lives of others. “It’s the best job to have, if you want to influence people to change for the better,” he said. Photo by Cpl. Shawn M. Toussaint
FALLUJAH, Iraq – Heat has been a critical issue for the military working dogs deployed with Marines to Iraq. Dogs have sweat glands only in the pads of their feet and rid themselves of heat by panting. Overheating can happen quickly if their human partners are not vigilant. At an outpost near here, Cpl. Donald R. Paldino, a military policeman assigned to 2nd Bn., 1st Marines, keeps a close eye on his partner, Santo, a 4-year-old Czechoslovakian Shepherd, to ensure he doesn’t fall victim to the extreme heat. The dog handler uses ice vests and soaks his dog’s belly, legs and head with cool water to help keep its body temperature down.
Portraits of Patriotism
Photo by Sgt. Jose E. Guillen
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HADITHAH DAM, Iraq – After spending several hours in the cold waters of the Euphrates River, Marines from Small Craft Co., assigned to 1st Marine Division, take a Zodiac boat out of the water May 20, 2004.The Marines are sharpening their riverine skills and conducting water-borne raids, a tactic not widely used since Vietnam.The company, comprised of infantrymen, normally specializes in boat operations. However, during the fighting in Fallujah they assumed a more traditional role as a rifle company. Now, with much of fighting settled, the Marines are getting their feet wet again. Photo by Sgt. Jose L. Garcia
June 22, 2003 The 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade returns to Camp Lejuene, N.C., after a six-month deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
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June 28, 2003 Polish Multi-National Division, made up of 17 countries, prepares to take over five of the seven governances currently under control of the I Marine Expeditionary Force by September.
June 27, 2003 South Carolina Senator Strom Thurmond, who was elected to the senate eight times and was the longest serving senator, dies at the age of 100.
AL TASH REFUGEE CAMP, Iraq – Lt. Col. Joseph P. Lisiecki, 1st Marine Division civil affairs officer, talks with some of the children here during a visit May 11, 2004. Remnants of the past still linger as a mural of Saddam Hussein watches over the camp. The people here are Kurdish refugees who left their Iranian border-town home during the Iran-Iraq War in 1980. Hussein would not allow the refugees to return home after war. Photo by Cpl. Paula M. Fitzgerald
CAMP AR RAMADI, Iraq – A newly-graduated Iraqi policeman receives a handshake and a certificate from Lt. Col. Daniel J. Racca, commandant of the Ar Ramadi Police Academy. A graduation ceremony was held here for 88 Iraqi policemen April 22, 2004. This was the first class instructed by Racca and his team of reserve Marines attached to 3rd Bn., 11th Marines. Photo by Cpl. Paula M. Fitzgerald
July 7, 2003 Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity launches from Cape Canaveral, Fla. It should reach Mars in 2004 and will explore the planet’s surface.
June 28, 2003 Navy, Marine, and Army engineers complete a new floating steel bridge in Zubaydiyah, Iraq—the biggest project of its kind in the country to date.
July 7, 2003 Reporters and TV crews from ABC, Associated Press, Reuters, Newsweek, Stars and Stripes and Iraqi Media Network travel on a four-day media blitz of the I Marine Expeditionary Force area of responsibility in Iraq.
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CAMP COMBAT OUTPOST, Iraq – While on guard duty at the government center of Ramadi, Lance Cpl. Richard C. Guillenavila, an infantryman with G Co., 2nd Bn., 4th Marines, was shot in the abdomen by an enemy sniper. Guillenavila, 19, from Jacksonville, Fla., was wearing a Small Arms Protective Insert plate in his protective vest. The ceramic plate is capable of stopping small-arms fire and fragmentation from weapons such as improvised explosive devices and mortar rounds. Guillenavila is saving the bullet as his new lucky charm.
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Photo by Cpl. Paula M. Fitzgerald
CAMP MAHMUDIYAH, Iraq – The one injury every infantryman risks when on patrol has nothing to do with bullets or mortars—it has to do with his feet. This rifleman’s feet put him out of action. The conditions the Marines live in while in the field—long hours in wet, dirty socks—contribute to problems with their feet. Marines experienced everything from athlete’s foot to trench foot during their deployment. “We've given out enough foot medication to treat half the battalion at one time. Trouble with feet is always a problem, you just can’t avoid it,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Barry C. Gibson, the independent duty hospital corpsman and triage officer for 2nd Bn., 2nd Marines. Photo by Cpl. Shawn C. Rhodes
AL KABANI, Iraq – Cpl. Maria C. Diaz, from the 1st Force Service Support Group disbursing office, holds an Iraqi baby during a visit here June 26, 2004. Diaz accompanied Marines from 3rd Bn., 24th Marines, who visited the village to check on the progress of a $175,000 water purification complex the unit contracted to have built. The complex will bring clean drinking water to nearly 3,000 Iraqis from Al Kabani and another nearby community. The battalion made regular visits to deliver donated shoes, school supplies and toys to the children of the village. Elements of the battalion provide security for nearby Camp Taqaddum. Diaz, 23, is from Los Angeles. Photo by Sgt. Matt Epright
July 7, 2003 The military governor of An Najaf, Iraq, welcomes a new government council of 29 representatives that were selected by local political parties.
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July 8, 2003 Actor and retired Marine R. Lee Ermey visits the Marines of Camp Babylon, Iraq.
July 13, 2003 A new Iraqi governing council, to represent the will of the Iraqi people, holds it first meeting in Baghdad, Iraq, taking the first steps towards self-government.
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq – Country music star Toby Keith and rock legend Ted Nugent perform for hundreds of I Marine Expeditionary Force Marines and sailors at Camp Fallujah June 4, 2004. The two musicians circulated through Iraq and Afghanistan to show their support for U.S. troops. Photo by Cpl. Matthew J. Apprendi
Marine Profile: Capt. Brian R. Chontosh MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER, Twentynine Palms, Calif. – Capt. Brian R. Chontosh, 29, from Rochester, N.Y., receives the Navy Cross from Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Michael W. Hagee here May 6, 2004. Chontosh, a combined anti-armor platoon commander, was awarded the medal for the heroism he exhibited March 25, 2003, while leading his platoon north on Highway 1 toward Ad Diwaniyah in Iraq. His platoon moved into the kill zone of a coordinated ambush of mortars, rocket-propelled grenades and automatic weapons fire. Chontosh directed his driver through a breach in the enemy trench, left his vehicle and began to clear the trench with an M-16A2 service rifle and 9mm pistol. He twice picked up discarded enemy rifles and continued his attack. The attack described in the citation as “audacious,” cleared 200 meters of enemy trench and killed more than 20 enemy soldiers while wounding several others. “I was just doing my job. I did the same thing every other Marine would have done,” Chontosh said. Photo by Cpl. Jeremy M. Vought
July 14, 2003 Marines from 1st Bn., 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, raid a Ba’ath Party hideout in Ash Shamiyah, Iraq, which intelligence sources said was being used to plan future attacks against coalition forces. They detained more than six suspected Ba’ath Party members and secured a small cache of weapons and Ba’ath Party documents.
July 13, 2003 Marines from 1st Bn., 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, set up a security guard academy to train residents of An Najaf, Iraq, as professional security officers.
July 19, 2003 In Karbala, Iraq, the Marines of K Co., 3rd Bn., 7th Marines, reach out to the Iraqi people with goats, chickens, humanitarian rations, and soccer balls.
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OtherHotSpots
July 19, 2003 During a tour of Iraq, Deputy Secretary of Defense Paul D. Wolfowitz takes time to visit with Karbala’s mayor to discuss the successes and challenges facing the city.
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July 21, 2003 1st Marine Division rehabilitates two more schools in An Najaf, Iraq, making a total of nine schools sponsored by the Marines in the province since the end of major combat operations in May.
July 22, 2003 Saddam Hussein’s sons, Qusay and Uday, are killed during a gunfight with coalition forces.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Marines from L Co., 3rd Bn., 8th Marines, return to the Haitian presidential palace after a patrol during which they visited a Haitian school April 15, 2004. The Marines donated classroom supplies to the school as part of Operation Homework.Photo by Lance Cpl. Kevin McCall
July 23, 2003 Broadening the coalition presence in southern Iraq, K Co., 3rd Bn., 23rd Marines, relocates to Aziziyah. The Marine infantry company from Memphis, Tenn., has the job of helping the police maintain order and establish a stronger local government.
July 31, 2003 Local officials and representatives of 3rd Bn., 7th Marines, attend the official reopening of the main police station in Karbala.
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America and its allies. Simultaneous operations conducted by the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa, based in Djibouti, reduce the number of bad guys in that region, while tending to the ailments and physical needs of the populace. In Haiti and Liberia, Marines landed and helped restore order after the presidents of both nations stepped down under pressure from their citizens and the United Nations. They helped preserve order, delivered goods and provided services to people in need. Marines have always answered the call of our nation and today’s Marines are no different. Though actions in Afghanistan and Iraq make the bulk of the headlines, Marines are deployed across the globe sharing a little of America and helping those in need in other hot spots.
FORWARD OPERATING BASE RIPLEY, Afghanistan – 1st Sgt. Ernest Hoopii, a 42-year-old native of Pukalani, Hawaii, carries wounded Lance Cpl. James Wood, of Tampa, Fla., over rough Afghan terrain June 3, 2004. The Marines, with C Co., Battalion Landing Team 1st Bn., 6th Marines, had advanced along a steep, rocky hillside in pursuit of anti-coalition militia fighters during the latest offensive against enemy fighters in south-central Afghanistan. Moments earlier, Wood was shot in the leg, becoming one of the company’s first wounded in action since the unit’s arrival in country. Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Keith A. Milks
Summer 2004
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news and commentary on world events often focuses on the negative aspects of the war in Iraq and casually glazes over the good things Marines and other service members are doing around the world. In fact, Marines working with other U.S. and international forces have made a tremendous impact on the war on terror in Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa, and have helped improve lives and preserve democracy in nations like Liberia and Haiti. In Afghanistan they hunt down and destroy terrorist cells whose main goal in life is to inflict casualties on
Portraits of Patriotism
By Gunnery Sgt. Glenn Holloway HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS, Washington
HE CONSTANT STREAM OF
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OtherHotSpots
OtherHotSpots
Aug. 1, 2003 The United States signs a free trade agreement with Singapore and Chile.
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Aug. 1, 2003 Adnan Nassin Alwan, the highest ranking Ba’ath Party member in Ad Diwaniyah, Iraq, surrenders to the Marines of 3rd Bn., 5th Marines, following raids by the Marines on suspected hideouts.
Aug. 1, 2003 Marines and sailors put out a fire on a fuel pipeline that runs west of Karbala, Iraq, after saboteurs fired two rocket-propelled grenades at an exposed valve on the crude oil pipeline.
FOND VERRETTES, Haiti – Marines with the Multinational Interim Force-Haiti deliver bottles of fresh water to villagers here May 25, 2004, as part of an initial aid response for the flood-ravaged community in Haiti's mountainous southeastern region. Military helicopters with MIF-Haiti flew in 18,000 liters of fresh water and 10 pallets each of bread and fruit to the village. The military provided the first supplies and non-governmental organizations provided the majority of follow-on aid. Photo by Cpl. Mike Escobar
AFGHANISTAN – As an
Marine Profile: Staff Sgt. Timothy C. La Sage CAMP PENDELTON, Calif. – Staff Sgt. Timothy C. La Sage, 28, a native of Milwaukee, is a scout sniper platoon sergeant with Scout Sniper Plt., Weapons Co., 2nd Bn., 5th Marines. Snipers must be mentally sound and physically fit expert shooters from the infantry Military Occupational Specialties, who are able to operate independently and have clean records. They must also pass a twoday screening that includes a physical fitness test, swim qualification, land navigation, ruck run and night observation exercise.
Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopter flies protectively overhead, Humvees from Bn. Landing Team 1st Bn., 6th Marines, the ground combat element of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), cross a wide, fast-moving river in south-central Afghanistan June 27, 2004. On the near bank, BLT 1/6’s adjutant, 1st Lt. Joshua Cavan, directs drivers on the best route to ford the river. Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Keith A. Milks
Photo by Cpl. Robert M. Storm
Aug. 9, 2003 The United States partially lifts the ban on beef imports from Canada, which was instituted because of cases of Mad Cow Disease were discovered there.
Aug. 7, 2003 A truck-bomb explosion at the Jordanian embassy in Iraq’s capital, Baghdad, kills several, causes many injuries, and destroys the building.
Aug. 15, 2003 A lack of transmission capacity results in a massive power failure in the northeastern part of the United States and southeastern part of Canada, which affects about 50 million people.
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OtherHotSpots
Marine Profile: Cpl. James E. Wright ARLINGTON, Va. – Cpl. James E. Wright, 28, from
www.usmc.mil
Seattle, salutes after receiving the Bronze Star with valor device from Deputy Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz June 1, 2004 at the Marine Corps War Memorial for his actions during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Wright's patrol was in the Anbar province of Iraq when it was attacked. Wright, an assistant team leader with B Co., 1st Reconnaissance Bn., 1st Marine Division, lost both his hands and sustained severe damage to his leg when a rocket-propelled grenade struck his vehicle. He remained calm and continued to give orders to his Marines to call for support and on how to render first aid, according to his citation. He also pointed out enemy machine gun emplacements, helping kill 26 enemy soldiers.
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Photo by Cpl. Richard Stephens
AFGHANISTAN – Sgt. Ryan West, of Lafayette, Ind., a squad leader with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), screams for his Marines to take cover as sniper fire impacts around them during a fight with anti-coalition militia in central Afghanistan June 2, 2004. During two days of heavy fighting, three Marines received minor wounds and at least 25 enemy were killed. Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Keith A. Milks
Aug. 20, 2003 A bipartisan delegation from the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives visits Marines and soldiers supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom at Camp Babylon, Iraq.
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Aug. 21, 2003 “Chemical Ali” Hassan al-Majid, one of Saddam Hussein’s top generals, is captured.
Aug. 22, 2003 Bn. Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, departs from San Diego on deployment.
ARTA, Djibouti – Cpl. Matthew Sposato, with Weapons Plt.,Task Force Betio, the force protection element for Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, clips a concertina wire obstacle after a path is made using a mine-clearing hook.The troops of the CJTF-HOA are conducting training and civil assistance projects in the region. Photo by Cpl. G. Lane Miley
AFGHANISTAN – Staff Sgt. Jeremy Coppola from the Combined Anti-Armor Team of Bn. Landing Team, 1st Bn., 6th Marines, climbs onto a “jingle” truck at a vehicle checkpoint in central Afghanistan June 29, 2004. BLT 1/6 is the ground combat element of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable). Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Keith A. Milks
LIBERIA – Marines with a Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team deployed from Rota, Spain, provide security for a HH-60G Pavehawk helicopter from the 56th Rescue Squadron, Naval Air Station Keflavik, Iceland, as it lands at the U.S. Embassy in Liberia July 28, 2003. The team of 21 Marines arrived in Monrovia July 21, to help secure to the U.S. Embassy in Liberia’s capital. They join a 35-member Humanitarian Assistance Support Team that U.S. European Command deployed July 7. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Justin D. Pyle
Aug. 26, 2003 The Ukrainian Army officially takes over for 3rd Bn., 23rd Marines, as the military authority in Wasit Province, Iraq.
Aug. 23, 2003 Marines from 1st Bn., 7th Marines, establish the First Legal Aid Society in Iraq, designed to employ underused lawyers while providing economically disadvantaged Iraqis free legal advice.
Aug. 26, 2003 In Karbala, Iraq, Marines of 3rd Bn., 7th Marines, prepare to return to home after handing over security of the city to the Bulgarian Army.
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ExercisesWorld
Aug. 28, 2003 Marines of Bulk Fuel Co., Combat Service Support Group 11, take their skills to the local railway station and fuel depot unloading up to 200,000 gallons of diesel fuel per day for the citizens of Ad Diwaniyah, Iraq.
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Aug. 28, 2003 With the arrival of the soldiers of the Spanish Plus-Ultra Brigade in Ad Diwaniyah, Iraq, 3rd Bn., 5th Marines, prepares to head home.
Sept. 3, 2003 Great Britain closes its embassy in Iran’s capital, Tehran.
CLARK AIR BASE, Republic of the Philippines –
Gunnery Sgt. Wesley A. Schaffer, with 3rd Reconnaissance Bn., 3rd Marine Division, free-falls from 10,000 feet during the friendship jump in Exercise Balikatan in March 2004. This exercise is only one of a number of on-going activities under the framework of U.S. and Philippine military security cooperation. Photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Walker
Marine Profile: Palau Recruits
MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO –
Nearly 60 years after Marines fought for more than 30 days to take control of the Palauan Islands from the Japanese military, three young men from Palau join the Corps’ ranks. Pfcs. Arlee P. Tellei, Kyle T. Ngiratregd and Sherlock J. Madlutk were the first Palauan citizens sworn into the Marine Corps on Palau. The three graduated recruit training June 11, 2004. Photo by Cpl. Shawn M. Toussaint
Sept. 3, 2003 In a ceremony at Camp Babylon, Iraq, I Marine Expeditionary Force transferred authority for five provinces in southern Iraq to the Polish-led Multinational Division Central-South.
Sept. 5, 2003 Marines from different companies within the 2nd Bn., 3rd Marines, aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, deploy from Oahu headed for Exercise Crocodile ‘03 in Australia.
Sept. 18, 2003 New York Stock Exchange chairman, Richard Grasso, resigns amidst outcry over his acceptance of a benefits and incentives package worth $140 million.
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Around the ExercisesWorld www.usmc.mil Portraits of Patriotism •
Summer 2004 24
By Staff Sgt. Cindy Fisher, HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS, Washington
Around
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ExercisesWorld M
ARINES OPERATE UNDER
the maxim, “The more you sweat in training, the less you bleed in war.” And Marines have sweated in just about every corner of the globe. Operating in foreign environs enhances Marines combat readiness and ability to react in any situation. These exercises in foreign lands do more than just provide better training opportunities for Marines though. Many of the exercises are conducted with other U.S. Armed Forces and host nation’s forces. They improve Marines’ combined and joint interoperability. In many exercises, this type of combined training also betters U.S. relations with host nations by strengthening ties between the United States and its allies. These are just a few of the numerous training exercises in which Marines participated this year and last: Exercise Jungle Shield in Guam • Exercise Tartan Eagle in the United Kingdom • UNITAS 45-04 in Peru • Exercise Sea Saber 2004 in the Arabian Sea • Clean Hunter 2004 in Denmark • Baltic Operations 2004 in Poland • Operation Maple Flag in Canada • Exercise Khaan Quest ’04 in Mongolia • Cobra Gold ’04 in Thailand • New Horizons in Guatemala • Combined Endeavor 2004 in Bulgaria • Exercise Foal Eagle in Korea • Exercise Freedom-Banner in the Republic of Korea • Exercise Tradewinds 2004 in the Dominican Republic • Exercise Edged Mallet in Kenya • Exercise Balikatan 2004 in the Republic of the Pilippines • Crocodile Exercise 2003 in Australia • Ulchi Focus Lens in the Republic of Korea • Exercise Talon Vision in the Republic of
FIVE HILLS, Mongolia — Staff Sgt. Robert Otero, a nonlethal weapons instructor with 3rd Force Service Support Group, demonstrates the brachial plexus pressure point technique on field military policeman Pfc. Jacob Koenan for soldiers from the Mongolian Armed Forces May 20, 2004. This nonlethal techniques training was part of Exercise Khaan Quest 04. Photo by Pfc. T. J. Kaemmerer
the Philippines • Exercise Southern Frontier in Australia • Exercise Cope Tiger in Thailand • Dutch Bilat I in Netherlands Antilles • Exercise Cope North in Guam • West Africa Training Cruise 2004 throughout West Africa • Exercise Forest Light in Japan • Courageous Bat 03 in Denmark • Exercise Tafakula 03 in the Kingdom of
Sept. 20, 2003 Marines with B and C Cos., 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Bn., Bn. Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, polish their combat skills in training sites across Singapore.
Tonga • Exercise Commando Sling in Singapore • Exercise Sumo Tiger 2003 in Bangladesh • Landing Force Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training in Southeast Asia.
Sept. 21, 2003 After traveling almost three billion miles and spending 14-years on the job, the U.S. spacecraft Galileo ends its mission by plunging into the atmosphere of Jupiter.
Sept. 23, 2003 1st Bn., 7th Marines, transfers authority to the Plus Ultra Spanish Brigade in An Najaf, Iraq, in preparation for its return to Twentynine Palms, Calif. The unit is the last Marine Corps battalion in southern Iraq.
GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba –
Lance Cpl. Esteban Campos, assigned to 7th Plt., 1st Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team, drags a full ammunition box through the surf during a Tarawa Day landing reenactment June 23, 2004. The exercise had Marines and sailors perform tasks similar to those carried out during the Marine assault of the Tarawa Atolls Nov. 20, 1943, during the Pacific Campaign of World War II. Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Terry W. Matlock
Marine Profile: Sgt. K. L. Cairns CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq – Sgt. K. L. Cairns is on his first deployment to Iraq. The 23-year-old native of Foley, Minn., is a topographic specialist with Combat Service Support Battalion 1. His battalion provided support to Regimental Combat Team 1 during Operation Vigilant Resolve to re-establish order in Fallujah and to account for the March 31 murders of four U.S. citizens who were dragged through the streets and mutilated. The battalion is with 1st Force Service Support Group, based in Camp Pendleton, Calif. Photo by Staff Sgt. Bill Lisbon
Oct. 1, 2003 Combat Service Support Group 11, the last remaining element of 1st Force Service Support Group that participated in the liberation of the Iraqi people, prepares to return to the United States.
Sept. 30, 2003 The United States begins pulling peacekeeping troops out of Liberia.
Oct. 1, 2003 Gordon R. England is sworn in as the 73rd secretary of the Navy, becoming only the second person in history to serve twice as the leader of the Navy-Marine Corps team and the first to serve in back-to-back terms.
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Around the ExercisesWorld
Marine Profile: Lance Cpl. Geoffrey D. Lindsay AR RAMADI, Iraq – Lance Cpl. George D. Lindsay, an infantryman with E Co., 2nd Bn., 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, was injured during fighting here April 6, 2004. Lindsay, 21, from Forest City, Iowa, was hit by shrapnel after an improvised explosive devise detonated near his 7-ton vehicle. Photo by Cpl. Paula M. Fitzgerald
OJOJIBARA MANEUVER AREA, Sendai, Japan – Sgt. Jae
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Park, section leader, machine gun section, Weapons Plt., F Co., 2nd Bn., 6th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, trudges uphill while training with cross country skis Feb. 6, 2004, as a part of Exercise Forest Light 2004, a bilateral training exercise between the Marine Corps and the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force. Photo by Lance Cpl. James J. Vooris
ALBANIA – An Albanian child herds his sheep past Light Armored Vehicle 25 from Bn. Landing Team 1st Bn., 6th Marines, stopped alongside a road in an Albanian village. BLT 1/6 is the ground combat element of the 22d Marine Expeditionary (Special Operations Capable), which participated in an amphibious landing exercise here, March 8-12, 2004. Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Keith A. Milks
Oct. 31, 2003 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar personnel work with San Diego County firefighters and thousands of personnel from across the west coast to contain and control fires that broke out in Southern California counties scorching more than 250,000 acres. The “Cedar Fire” raked across 19 of the 23,000 acres that make up the air station. No aircraft, buildings or lives were lost aboard the air station.
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Oct. 8, 2003 In a recall election, Arnold Schwarzenegger is elected governor of California.
Oct. 31, 2003 U.S. sanctions against Sudan are extended for another year despite the peace deal between the Sudan government and the rebels expected to be in place by the end of the year.
THE INDIAN OCEAN –
Marine Corps helicopters assigned to the Air Combat Element of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) depart the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) April 11, 2004. The 22nd MEU (SOC) and the Wasp were deployed as part of Expeditionary Strike Group Two in the 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility. Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Teresa J. Ellison
SHOALWATER BAY TRAINING AREA, Queensland, Australia – Reserve Marines from 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Bn., based out of Salt Lake City, on deployment from Okinawa, Japan, light up the night skies here during a night-fire exercise sending massive amounts of firepower down range and destroying numerous targets Oct. 2, 2003. The Marines tactically employed their Meals Ready-to-Eat by heating the MREs' water packets near the target so the Marines could use their thermal scopes. The unit was part of the ground combat element for 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade in Australia for Exercise Crocodile 2003. Photo by Lance Cpl. Monroe F. Seigle
CAMP SAMUEL HILL, Queensland, Australia – Several CH46s land at Sam Hill air field Sept. 18, 2003. Australian Army soldiers battled U.S. Marines in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area overnight as part of Exercise Crocodile 2003, which is the most significant activity for Australian Defense personnel outside of operational commitments. Designed to test almost 7,000 ADF members and nearly 3,000 U.S. personnel, Exercise Crocodile 2003 has a wide range of military operations at sea, in the air and ashore. Photo by Lance Cpl Neil Ruskin
Nov. 6, 2003 Reserve Marines and Sailors with K Co., 3rd Bn., 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division, train for the West African Training Cruise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., before departing to Ghana Nov. 10.
Nov. 4, 2003 The Senate approves President Bush’s $87 billion emergency fund for Iraq and Afghanistan.
Nov. 10, 2003 For the first time since the Vietnam War, a high-level official, Vietnam’s defense minister Pham Van Tra, visits the United States. While here he talks with Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld.
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Around the ExercisesWorld
LAMU, Kenya – A Marine with Engineer Det., MEU Service Support Group 13, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), gets a little “PT” time in with the help of local children here Jan. 11, 2004. Marine engineers and Kenyan Army engineers of the 12th Engineer Bn. worked together to refurbish three school buildings at Lamu Boys’ Secondary School. The project was part of Exercise Edged Mallet, an annual bilateral exercise that encompasses basic infantry skills training, a humanitarian assistance project, and medical and dental assistance clinics in several locations throughout the coastal region of Kenya. Photo by Sgt. Adrian Pascual
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Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Felix Garza Jr.
Summer 2004
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PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan, Philippines – Lance Cpl. Kim Winn, of Tallahassee Fla., a member of the Guard Force at Western Command, prepares to enter a room during Close Quarter Tactic drills while participating in Exercise Balikatan 2004 Feb. 21, 2004. Exercise Balikatan 2004, an annual bilateral combined exercise, is designed to improve combined planning, combat readiness and interoperability of the U.S. and Philippine military forces. The exercise demonstrates U.S. resolve and commitment to train, advise and assist the government of the Philippines.
PACIFIC OCEAN – An amphibious assault vehicle assigned to the 3rd Amphibious Assault Bn., based out of Camp Pendleton, Calif., departs the well deck aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) April 26, 2004. Bonhomme Richard was at sea conducting Amphibious Specialty Training while undergoing a Tailored Ship’s Training Assessment, in preparation for an upcoming deployment. Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Jennifer Rivera
Dec. 1, 2003 The Marine recruiters of Marine Corps Recruiting Command successfully meet their assigned recruiting goals for 100 consecutive months.
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Nov. 27, 2003 President Bush spends Thanksgiving with U.S. troops in Baghdad, Iraq.
Dec. 13, 2003 U.S. troops capture Saddam Hussein in a spider-hole in a town near Tikrit, Iraq.
SUEZ CANAL – Marines assigned to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) view the Mubarak-Peace Bridge, while transiting the Suez Canal aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) June 27, 2004. The 24th MEU (SOC) was headed for the Central Command Area of Responsibility in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and the global war on terrorism. Photo by Seaman Kenny Swartout
Marine Profile: Capt. Jason Frei CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – Capt. Jason Frei sits with the humvee door that was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade in Iraq. Frei lost his hand north of An Nasiriya March 25, 2003, while serving as the commanding officer of A Co., 1st Bn., 11th Marines, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Frei, a 31-year-old native of Hazen, N.D., recieved the Purple Heart for his wounds. Photo by Cpl. Matthew S. Richards
Dec. 13, 2003 Marine Air Control Squadron 2 departs Manas Air Base, Kyrgyz Republic, after a 19-month mission providing air traffic control services to the international coalition effort in Operation Enduring Freedom.
Jan. 3, 2004 Mars Exploration Rover Spirit lands in Gusey Crater on Mars.
Dec. 24, 2003 Russia bans American beef imports when the United States announces its first case of mad cow disease.
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UnitBreakdown By Staff Sgt. David Crockett, HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS, Washington
Major Installations: MCB Camp Pendleton, Calif. Reserve HQ Marine Forces Reserve, New Orleans
MCB Camp Lejeune, N.C.
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MCB Hawaii, Island of Oahu
Major Installations: West Coast • Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. • Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif. • Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif. • Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif. • Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. • Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz. Outside CONUS • Marine Corps Base Hawaii
Haiti – See Page 32
Liberia – See Page 33
MARINE CORPS ORGANIZES expeditionary units for military missions into Marine Air-Ground Task Forces. A MAGTF is tailored to meet the specific needs of a given mission, but there are always four principle elements to its structure — the command element, ground combat element, aviation combat element and a combat service support element. The Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), the smallest MAGTF, is the quick reaction force forward deployed as part of an Expeditionary Strike Group. MEUs operate continuously in assigned areas of responsibility throughout the world. They provide a variety of sea-based, crisis response options in either conventional amphibious/expeditionary roles
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Jan. 4, 2004 North Korea invites an American team — to include a nuclear expert, congressional aides, and a former state department member — to visit its nuclear site at Yongbyon.
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East Coast • Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Ga. • Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. • Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C. • Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C. • Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C. • Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. • Headquarters Marine Corps, Wash. • Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va.
or in the execution of maritime special operations. The MEU deploys with 15 days of accompanying supplies. To become “Special Operations Capable,” a MEU undergoes an intensive six-month training program. The SOC certification allows a MEU's Marines to conduct missions like humanitarian assistance operations and tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel. The next step up from the MEU is the mid-sized Marine Expeditionary Brigade. It provides transitional capabilities between the forward-deployed MEU and the larger Marine Expeditionary Force. As the need for a stronger military presence increases, a MEB can integrate with a MEU to build upon its established pre-positioned elements. The MEB would then take command of the operation with the
Jan. 9, 2004 The largest movement of U.S. forces since World War II begins. About 125,000 service members deployed to Iraq leave the country, replaced with fewer armed forces, including more National Guard and Reserve units. Troops are also being rotated in Kuwait and Afghanistan.
Jan. 5, 2004 Marines and sailors of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) aboard USS Germantown arrive at Manda Bay Naval Base, Kenya, to kick off Exercise Edged Mallet.
Jan. 14, 2004 USS Boxer departs San Diego for the Central Command area of responsibility in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II force rotation. More than 200 Marines and 900 sailors embarked aboard Boxer are providing amphibious lift for a portion of the equipment and personnel from the I Marine Expeditionary Force.
MARINE DEPLOYMENTS WORLDWIDE – America’s ‘911 force’ travels the globe, training for any mission, fighting for freedom and answering the nation’s call.
MCB Okinawa, Japan Major Installations: Far East • Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan • Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan • Marine Corps Bases Okinawa, Japan
Afghanistan – See Page 32 Iraq – See Page 33
Djibouti – See Page 32
MEU under its umbrella of control. Equipped with 30 days of supplies, a MEB can conduct amphibious assaults and sustained operations ashore in any geographic environment. The Marine Expeditionary Force is the Corps’ largest MAGTF. There are MEFs in place during peacetime and wartime, based on the West and East coasts and in the Far East. It is from the MEF that the smaller MAGTF is drawn, however, the MEF too deploys during larger crises or contingencies. A MEF is equipped with 60 days of supplies for sustained operations and can penetrate far inland.
Jan. 18, 2004 President Bush details the goals of a new space exploration program, which includes a permanent lunar station and a manned mission to Mars.
Jan. 17, 2004 Marines from 2nd Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team Company, 7th Platoon, visit Iwo Jima to commemorate the anniversary of the battle that played a pivotal role in the Corps’ history.
The Maritime Prepositioning Force further extends the sustained operations capabilities of the MAGTF. The MPF consists of 16 ships split into three squadrons, based in the Mediterranean, Diego Garcia and the GuamSaipan areas. The MPF ships, patrolling their assigned areas, transport and offload their equipment and supplies to where the MAGTF most needs it, extending operations another 30 days. MAGTFs provide the flexibility that allows a rapid response to any situation when the nation calls.
Denotes locations of Marine Corps Bases and Major Installations. For more about Marine Corps Bases, see “Base Life” on page 34 and “Home Training” on page 42.
Denotes countries where the Marine Corps has conducted operations in support of the Global War on Terror and other missions. For more about Marine Corps operations abroad, see “Back in Iraq” on page 4 and “Other Hot Spots” on page 16.
Denotes countries that participated in training operations with the Marine Corps. For more about Marine Corps training exercises abroad, see “Exercises Around the World” on page 22.
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Unit Breakdown www.usmc.mil Portraits of Patriotism •
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Afghanistan
Djibouti
ommunism was introduced to Afghanistan in 1979 when the Soviet Union invaded. Anti-Communist mujahidin forces pushed the Soviet Union out 10 years later but communism remained, until its collapse in Kabul in 1992. Subsequent fighting broke out among the various mujahidin factions, which gave rise to the Taliban ultimately seizing power in 1996. United States, Allied, and Northern Alliance military action toppled the Taliban in December 2001. Hamid Karzai was elected president by secret ballot of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan in June 2002 and a constitution for the country was signed Jan. 16, 2004. In addition to occasionally violent political jockeying and ongoing military action to root out remaining terrorists and Taliban elements, the country suffers from enormous poverty, a lack of skilled and educated workers, a crumbling infrastructure, and widespread land mines. U.S. troops remain to help rebuild the country's infrastructure and seek out any remaining terrorist elements. The 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), reinforced with some Army units and designated as Task Force Linebacker was in country from March to July 2004 in the Oruzgan province, birthplace of Taliban leader Mullah Omar and a long-time stronghold of anti-coalition militia activity. Marines from the 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, are currently in Afghanistan as part of Combined Joint Task Force Thunder. A reinforced CH-53 squadron, with additional AH-1W Cobras and UH-1N Hueys, is operating out of Bagram as well.
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Afghanistan Statistics: • Slightly smaller than Texas • Population of 28,513,677 (July 2004 est.) • No coastline • Climate arid to semiarid • Terrain mostly rugged mountains with plains in the north and southwest 22nd MEU (SOC) in Afghanistan: • Conducted 12 named combat and civil military operations in the Oruzgan and Zabol provinces • Killed 101 enemy fighters • About 100 enemy fighters taken into coalition custody • Confiscated 2,500 weapons • Confiscated 80,000 pieces of ammunition or ordinance • Treated more than 2,000 medical and dental patients • Registered about 58,000 Afghan citizens to vote in the historic upcoming elections • Completed or began 108 civil affairs projects
Jan. 20, 2004 In the Democratic Party’s Iowa caucuses for the Democratic Party’s nominations for the presidential election, John Kerry places first, winning 37.7 percent of votes, followed by John Edwards with 31.8 percent and Howard Dean, with 18 percent.
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jibouti is strategically important because of its location at the entrance to the Bab al Mandeb, a strait between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, and as a transshipment location for goods entering and leaving the east African highlands. The country’s close ties with France and pro-Western orientation afforded the United States access to Djibouti’s support facilities during Operation Enduring Freedom. The Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa operates from Camp Lemonier in Djibouti. There are more than 1,800 CJTF-HOA personnel in country, representing all branches of the U.S. armed services, coalition military members and civilian personnel. Djibouti Statistics: • Slightly smaller than Massachusetts • Population of 466,900 (July 2004 est.) • 195 miles of coastline • Desert climate, torrid and dry • Terrain coastal plain and plateau separated by central mountains Marines currently in Djibouti: • Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa commanding general is Marine Brig. Gen. Samuel T. Helland • Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa sergeant major is Marine Sgt. Maj. Bruce J. Poland • Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 Det. B (Reinforced) • K Co., 3rd Bn., 2nd Marines
Haiti olumbus discovered Hispaniola in 1492 and the original inhabitants were virtually annihilated by Spanish settlers within 25 years. The French established a presence there in the 17th century, and Spain ceded Haiti, the western third of the island, to the French in 1697, who imported large numbers of African slaves to support its commerce. Toussaint L’Ouverture led Haiti’s nearly half million slaves to revolt in the late 18th century, and Haiti became the first black republic to declare its independence in1804. The poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, Haiti has been plagued by political violence for most of its history. Early in 2004 three forces, the government headed by President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, an opposition who want Aristide to resign, and rebels forces not allied with the opposition who also seek Aristide’s removal, continue to disrupt the country with political unrest. In February 2004, rebel leaders captured Cap-Haitien, Haiti’s second-largest city. Within a day, the first Marines were in country to protect the U.S. Embassy. When Aristide left the country in late April, Marines were sent
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Jan. 22, 2004 Richard Causey, the former top accountant of the energy corporation Enron charged with fraud and conspiracy, is arrested. Enron went bankrupt two years ago.
Jan. 24, 2004 Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity lands in Meridiani Planum on Mars.
as first phase of an interim international force to help stabilize Haiti after the weeks of fighting. Haiti Statistics: • Slightly smaller than Maryland • Population of 7,656,166 (July 2004 est.) • 1,065 miles of coastline • Climate tropical but semiarid where eastern mountains cut off trade winds • Terrain mostly rough and mountainous Marines in Haiti: • 50 Marines of a Fleet Anti-Terrorism Support Team arrive at Port-au-Prince Feb. 23, 2004, to protect the U.S. Embassy and its staff • 8th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, based at Camp Lejeune, N.C., deploy to Haiti in early March 2004 • Combined Joint Task Force – Haiti officially activated March 15, Marine Brig. Gen. Ronald S. Coleman assumes command of the Multi-national Interim Force • Marine Light/Attack Helicopter Squadron-269, based in New River, N.C., deployed to Haiti March 3, 2004 • 3rd Bn., 8th Marines, begins returning to the United States June 14, 2004 • Marines and sailors from Combat Service Support Det. 20 depart Haiti for the United States June 20, 2004 • Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 264 returns to New River from Haiti June 19-20, 2004 • Most of the Marines of the task force leave by the end of June 2004
Iraq ccupied by Great Britain during World War I, Iraq became an independent country in 1932. It was proclaimed a republic in 1958, but has been ruled by a series of military strongmen, ending with Saddam Hussein. The country’s invasion of Kuwait in August 1990 led to Desert Shield/Desert Storm, ending in Iraq’s expulsion from Kuwait in early 1991. In March 2003, a United States-led invasion of Iraq ousted the Hussein regime. Sovereignty was returned to the Iraqi people in June 2004, although Coalition forces remain in the country helping to rebuild the infrastructure. For more about Marine operations in Iraq, see “Back in Iraq” on page 4.
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Iraq Statistics: • More than twice the size of Idaho • Population of 25,374,691 (July 2004 est.) • 36 miles of coastline • Mostly desert climate • Terrain mostly broad plains with reedy marshes along the Iran border and mountains along the Iran and Turkey borders Marines currently in Iraq: • 30,000 Marines are in the Iraq/Kuwait region • Two-thirds of 1st Marine Division troops currently in Jan. 25, 2004 More than 170 Marines and Sailors from III Marine Expeditionary Force arrive at Camp Asaka, Japan, a Japanese Ground Self Defense Force camp on the outskirts of Tokyo, to participate in Exercise Yama Sakura, the largest bilateral exercise conducted in Japan.
Iraq took part in OIF in 2003 • 1st Force Service Support Group handled more than 8 million pounds of mail from March 15 to July 31, 2004, for I Marine Expeditionary Force Marines in Iraq
Liberia reed U.S. slaves founded Liberia, which means “land of the free,” in 1820. A coup in 1980 overset the government of the Republic of Liberia, eventually leading to the 1989-1996 civil war, which killed more than 200,000 Liberians. The war-torn country’s continued unrest has slowed the process of rebuilding. Charles Taylor won the 1997 presidential elections but was never able to eliminate rebel groups. He abdicated in August 2003, after rebel attacks on Monrovia, and a two-year UN-imposed sanction for his involvement in neighboring Sierra Leone’s civil war. A transitional government, composed of rebel, government, and civil society groups, assumed control in October 2003. Chairman Gyude Bryant heads the new government. Marines went into Liberia in July 2003 after fighting between government and rebel forces reached the capitol’s diplomatic section, which includes the U.S. Embassy.
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Liberia Statistics: • Slightly larger than Tennessee • Population of 3,390,635 (July 2004 est.) • 359 miles of coastline • Climate tropical, hot, humid. Dry winters with frequent heavy showers in summer • Terrain mostly flat to rolling coastal plains, rising to rolling plateaus and low mountains in northeast Marines in Liberia: • Aug. 6, 2003, a team of roughly 7 Marines inserts into Monrovia, Liberia to provide logistical support to Nigerian peacekeepers • Aug. 14, 2003, elements of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit began to land in Monrovia.These are the first of some 200 Marines that are to operate in Liberia • About 150 Marines from the 26th MEU depart Liberia Aug. 24, 2003 • About 50 Marines, based out of U.S. Naval Station Rota, Spain, are to remain at the embassy in Monrovia as security Information for all countries pulled from the CIA World Factbook at http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/.
Jan. 30, 2004 Reserve Marines of Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 49 in Newburgh, N.Y., are part of the more than 20,000 Marines heading back to Iraq and Afghanistan over the next several weeks.
Feb 10, 2004 The United States appoints a permanent envoy to Libya.
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Feb. 12, 2004 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Marines deploy from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., bound for Iraq.
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Feb. 16, 2004 Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 332 heads back to Marine Corps Station Iwakuni, Japan, after a fourweek deployment in Australia for Operation Southern Frontier. The unit is based in Beaufort, S.C., but deployed to Iwakuni as a part of the Unit Deployment Program.
Feb. 23, 2004 Ralph Nader announces his intention to run as an independent candidate in the November 2004 presidential election.
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. – A young girl finds a better view during President Bush’s visit to Marine Corps Air Station, Miramar Aug. 14, 2003. The president spoke to a crowd of about 10,000 people. He spoke on a number of issues related to the military, thanked the Marines and sailors for their service to the nation and vowed to remain focused on the war against terror. Photo by Cpl. Ethan E. Rocke
March 3, 2004 Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269 departs Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., for Haiti in support of a contingency operation as part of the Alert Contingency Marine Air Ground Task Force. The unit teams with 8th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, based out of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Feb. 28, 2004 Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466 begins its first flight operations in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
March 5, 2004 Marines and sailors from 1st Bn., 5th Marines, depart Okinawa for a six-month deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II.
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BaseLife www.usmc.mil Portraits of Patriotism •
Summer 2004
By Lt. Col. Greg Reeder, HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS, Washington
BaseLife W
HETHER ON AN ISLAND
in the Pacific Ocean, the high desert or woodland expanse, our Marine Corps bases provide a place for replenishment and recharging. Where else can you go from training with deadly weapons systems to jaunt at the beach all in one day? Our bases, stations and camps mark each day with the raising of the flag. Children dismount their bikes, commissary shoppers stop their carts and cars come to a halt to honor those that serve and those that have gone before. A flurry of activities follows. There are schools to attend, waves to surf, movies to see, amphibious landings to watch and the sounds of freedom — like tanks and jets — to hear. Woven into the fabric of service to Corps and country are the threads of life aboard our Marine Corps bases. A mixture of culture and community where joys are shared, bonds rekindled, tears shed and life renewed — base life offers a foundation for the Marines and families that serve our Corps.
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan – Pfc. Michael Constantinoff and Cpl. Erik Sherlund push Lance Cpl. Craig Walker as he blindly navigates a “krazy kart” through the Recycle Wars course during the Camp Foster October Fest Oct. 12, 2003. Four teams ran the course twice in celebration of America Recycles Day and to raise money for their Marine Corps birthday ball.The four teams, limited to eight members—two scroungers, two runners and four constructors, scrounged through junk piles to gather the materials for their karts and they had about two and a half hours to build them. Photo by Cpl. Cindy L. Pray
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – Lance Cpl. Michael Inscho works on a wall mural April 23, 2004. The Bath, N.Y., native is a motor transportation operator holding a dispatching billet with Service Co., 8th Communication Bn., II Marine Expeditionary Force. He spends most of his free time drawing and prefers landscapes and cars but is honored to exhibit his talent on the walls of his shop. Inscho has painted several murals throughout the motor pool and continues to do so whenever he has spare time. “I just love drawing,” he said. “It relaxes me and allows me to express my individuality, even while in the Marine Corps.” Photo by Pfc. Matthew K. Hacker
March 6, 2004 Martha Stewart is found guilty of conspiracy, making false statements, and obstruction of justice in connection with insider trading.
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March 8, 2004 The Iraqi Governing Council signs an interim constitution in Baghdad, Iraq.
March 8, 2004 About 25,000 Marines and sailors are expected to deploy to western Iraq to conduct security and stability operations.
MARINE BARRACKS WASHINGTON – Sgt. Maj. Alfred McMichael faces Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Michael W. Hagee after relinquishing his post as Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps June 26, 2003. Sgt. Maj. John L. Estrada relieved McMichael, becoming the 15th Marine to hold the post of highest enlisted Marine. McMichael reported to the European Command to work for former Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen James L. Jones. Photo by Cpl. Travis W. Shiflett
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – Sgt. Michael A. Simmons, a bronze star recipient, received the AT&T Defense of Freedom Award at the American Veterans Awards ceremony Nov. 21, 2003, for actions he performed while under fire in Iraq. The 24-year-old vehicle commander with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Bn., and native of Union, Mo., stands with his former crew, Lance Cpls. Mark A. Rodriguez, of Del Rio, Texas, and De H. Pham, of San Diego. Photo by Cpl. Shawn C. Rhodes
Marine Profile: Sgt. Michael A. Simmons
March 11, 2004 Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 3 returns to Iraq to provide the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing with logistical support and force protection.
March 9, 2004 John Allen Muhammad, the Washington sniper, is sentenced to death for the October 2002 killings.
March 21, 2004 Marines from Marine Aircraft Group 24, based at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, begin arriving on the Korean peninsula in support of Exercise Foal Eagle ‘04.
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MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – Col. Robert P. Wagner III, commanding officer, Weapons and Field Training Bn., cuts the traditional birthday cake on the parade deck at Edson Range Nov. 11, 2003, commemorating the 228th birthday of the Corps. The guest of honor for the ceremony was Brig. Gen. John M. Paxton Jr., commanding general, Marine Recruit Depot San Diego and the Western Recruiting Region.
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan – Heather Hyson climbs a rope on the obstacle course here during family day May 15, 2004. Hyson is a sixth grader at Zukeran Elementary School. Family day gave family members the opportunity to see and participate in some of the activities that service members support during a typical work day.
Photo by Master Sgt. Janice M. Hagar
Photo by Cpl. Ryan Walker
MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO – The Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard from Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow presents the colors at the Headquarters and Service Battalion sergeants major relief and appointment ceremony April 2, 2004. During the ceremony, Sgt. Maj. Armando Escobedo took over as H&S Bn.’s senior enlisted Marine, relieving Sgt. Maj. Annanias Rose, who retired from the Marine Corps during the same ceremony after 30 years of service. Barstow’s color guard is the only mounted color guard in the Marine Corps. Photo by Sgt. Ryan Smith
March 24, 2004 The U.S. Supreme Court agrees to review the constitutionality of the words “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance to determine if the phrase violates the separation between church and state.
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March 24, 2004 I Marine Expeditionary Force officially accepts authority for Al Anbar province, Iraq, from the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division.
March 26, 2004 Another 2,000 Marines join the 12,000 troops in Afghanistan intensifying the hunt for Osama bin Laden and other al-Qaeda and Taliban leaders.
MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII – The 9th Annual Combat Service Support Group 3 Swamp Romp made a muddy splash here July 26, 2003, as more than 1,200 thrill-seekers from around the island raced to get down and dirty. The six-person teams trudged through deep sand, mud pits, man-made obstacles and ocean surf for more than five miles and nearly an hour to reach the finish. Photo by Cpl. Jason E. Miller
CAMP TAQADDUM, Iraq – Lance Cpl. Nicholas R. Bruce waits to roll out of Camp Taqaddum as a passenger on a convoy delivering critical supplies to Fallujah in support of Operation Vigilant Resolve April 6, 2004. Later that night, insurgents ambushed the convoy, wounding eight and crippling several vehicles. The convoy was stopped for more than 12 hours before it could continue to Camp Fallujah. Vigilant Resolve was launched to re-establish order in Fallujah and to account for the March 31 murders of four U.S. citizens who were dragged through the streets and murdered there. Bruce is a 20-year-old native of Blythewood, S.C.
Marine Profile: Lance Cpl. Nicholas R. Bruce
Photo by Staff Sgt. Bill Lisbon
March 31, 2004 Four civilian contractors are killed by insurgents in Iraq.
March 31, 2004 Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice testifies in public and under oath to the 9/11 commission.
April 5, 2004 Marines and Coalition forces begin Operation Vigilant Resolve in Al Anbar province, Iraq. The operation is designed to pacify violent elements in the area.
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SAN DIEGO – Lance Cpl. Mario Reyes, of Chicago, says a final goodbye to his family on his cellular phone prior to boarding the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer Jan. 14, 2004. The ship departed on a deployment to the Central Command area of responsibility in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II force rotation. More than 200 Marines and 900 sailors embarked aboard the Wasp-class ship.
www.usmc.mil
Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Mark J. Rebilas
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. –
Portraits of Patriotism
Lance Cpl. Andrew Cole of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit gets buried in sand by fellow Marines at Onslow Beach during the 24th MEU Family Day June 18, 2004. Cole is a combat engineer with Engineer Detachment, MEU Service Support Group 24. The family day was the last opportunity for the families to get together before the unit departed for deployment to Iraq. Photo by Lance Cpl. Sarah A. Beavers
Summer 2004
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MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO – Staff Sgt. Arnold J. Towle, from Farmington, N.H., is the senior drill instructor for Plt. 1063, B Co. He adjusted his work habits to care for his daughter, Julia, who was born five weeks early with holes in her heart. She spent the first five weeks of her life in an incubator and was on medication for the first six months to prevent her body from overworking to breathe. Towle’s command supported him and gave him time off when they could. Julia is now doing well and visits a heart specialist every three months to monitor the holes. “During core values time with the recruits, I tell them how the Marine Corps is one huge family with one big support system,” said Towle. “By becoming a Marine you just add onto your family.”
Marine Profile: Staff Sgt. Arnold J. Towle
Photo by Lance Cpl. Edward R. Guevara Jr.
April 7, 2004 Marines in Fallujah, Iraq, use air support to break through the wall of a mosque complex that insurgents were using to fire on them.
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April 15, 2004 Marine Corps and Army engineers finish construction of a barrier around much of Fallujah, Iraq, blocking off the majority of pathways leading into or out of the city, and deterring insurgents from bringing in weapons and gear.
April 10, 2004 Coalition forces unilaterally suspended offensive military operations in Fallujah, Iraq.
MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO – Lance Cpl. Aaron Card, military police officer, Provost Marshal’s Office, stands watch at Gate 2, the Barnett Ave. entrance here Oct. 31, 2003. Card, along with many other Marines, wore a surgical mask to protect against the thick smoke polluting the air across the San Diego area after three major fires raged out of control in late October. The fires destroyed nearly 1,200 homes and burned more than 315,000 acres. Photo by Cpl. Ethan E. Rocke
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – Arnold Swarzenegger visits the crowd packed into the base theater for a sneak preview of his new movie “Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines” June 26, 2004. “It (was) my token of appreciation to say thank you to all of you,” Schwarzenneger, who decided to give Pendleton service members first crack at his first Terminator movie in 12 years. “The Marines are the real terminators. Whenever they see a problem, they terminate it,” the actor said. Photo by Cpl. Matthew S. Richards
April 19, 2004 United States, coalition and Iraqi officials agree “to implement a full and unbroken cease-fire” in the city of Fallujah, Iraq.
April 19, 2004 John Negroponte, the current American ambassador to the United Nations, is announced to be the U.S. ambassador to Iraq after the scheduled June 30 transfer of sovereignty to Iraq.
April 24, 2004 Spec. Pat Tillman, who gave up a promising football career after Sept. 11, 2001, to join the Army, is killed in Khost province in southeastern Afghanistan.
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April 24, 2004 The Marines of Combat Service Support Co. 113 repair rough roads around an infantry outpost on the edge of Fallujah, Iraq, that will soon be home to a battalion of the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps.
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April 28, 2004 Personnel from Combined Joint Task Force-Haiti and Marine Air Ground Task Force 8 have delivered more than $23,000 worth of medical supplies to a local hospital in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
April 28, 2004 Joint Marine and Iraqi patrols begin in Fallujah, Iraq.
MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. – A recruit struggles through the final phase of basic training, the combat resupply course known as the Crucible, Sept. 23, 2003. The final three-day field exercise tests recruits’ endurance during day and night operations with food and sleep deprivation. Photo by Air Force Staff Sgt. Jennie Ivey
Marine Profile: Luci AL ASAD, Iraq – Luci, once a Baghdad stray, settles into her role as the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing mascot here. The dog followed Army Special Forces during their patrols on the streets of Baghdad. They credited her with saving their lives a couple of times when she sniffed out ambushes and barked to alert them. The Army unit departed Baghdad and 3rd MAW adopted Luci and one of her pups, taking them to Al Asad. The pup, Melissa, became the new mascot for Marine Wing Support Squadron 374, Marine Wing Support Group 37, 3rd MAW. Photo by Sgt. David M. Walsh
May 4, 2004 Marines reposition forces in Fallujah, Iraq, pulling back to the outskirts of the city. The move coincided with the formation of the 1st Bn. of the Fallujah Brigade, a new Iraqi force expected to be composed of former elements of the Iraqi army.
May 4, 2004 Maj. Gen. James F. Amos, commanding general, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, gives an 11-week-old Iraqi puppy named Melissa to the “Rhinos” of Marine Wing Support Squadron 374, Marine Wing Support Group 37.
May 8, 2004 Marines from 2nd Bn., 7th Marines, in western Al Anbar province help open a new Iraqi Civil Defense Corps training center. The center’s opening marks the Iraqi force’s strides to taking more responsibility for security in their own cities.
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HomeTraining www.usmc.mil
HomeTraining MARINE’S NEW BOOTS — combat, hot-climate, rough-side-out — sink into the sizzling sands of Iraq, they’ve already been tested under conditions that could make all-star athletes stumble and fall. They’ve trudged the ranges of Camps Lejeune and Pendleton and soaked in the surf off Onslow and Red beaches. They’ve dragged through the gritty sands of Twentynine Palms and pounded the tarmacs of Cherry Point and Miramar. The feet they protect have endured long hours bearing enormous weights, and fallen asleep while the Marines they’re attached to spent endless sleepless hours in listening posts waiting for unseen enemies. They have been rudely stamped awake in the predawn frosts of Virginia winters and have smoked on dust-choked trails of Southern California. They’re no boots, these boots. They’re ready for the tasks at hand and have the experiences of a realistic Marine Corps education to rely on when the commander calls. These boots were made for walking — and running and humping and jumping and crawling — yeah, Marines call it training. Get some!
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CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan –
Cpl. Chris R. Rodriguez, a reconnaissance Marine, provides rear security for fellow Marines during assault training at Camp Hanson June 22, 2004. Twenty Marines, with 3rd Reconnaissance Bn., 3rd Marine Division, participated in the Dynamic Assault Course taught by close quarter battle experts with the III Marine Expeditionary Force Special Operations Training Group. The training is part of a series of courses the Marines must complete before the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit qualifies as special operations capable. Special operations capability allows Marines to conduct high-risk missions requiring stealth and surprise. The 31st MEU re-qualifies as special operations capable every six months.
Summer 2004
May 11, 2004 Members of the 1st Marine Division civil affairs team visit Al Tash Refugee Camp, Iraq, to repair the camp’s substandard infrastructure. Marines, sailors and soldiers deliver assorted medical supplies and two 30,000-gallon water storage units.
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CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan –
Marines with 3rd Materiel Readiness Bn., 3rd Force Service Support Group, sit aboard a CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter during Photo by Cpl. Ryan Walker embarkation and landing zone defense training here June 7, 2004. Building on training and tactics forged in the jungles of Vietnam, the 3rd MRB Marines were supported in their endeavor by two Sea Knight helicopters and crews from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262. The training is part of MRB’s effort to prepare their Marines for combat missions. The drills also help build the confidence and leadership abilities of individual noncommissioned officers. Photo by Lance Cpl. Jonathan K. Teslevich
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Portraits of Patriotism
By Gunnery Sgt. Glenn Holloway, HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS, Washington
May 11, 2004 Marines from L Co., 3rd Bn., 8th Marines, deliver approximately 30 desks, 100 chairs and several tables to Escole Eu Venezuela (Venezuela School), a school in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
May 13-27, 2004 The armed forces of Thailand, Singapore, Mongolia, Philippines and the United States conduct exercise Cobra Gold ‘04 in Thailand.
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. –
Supply Marines with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 11 and their ground support equipment counterparts hike through Camp Elliot April 2, 2004. The march prepares the Marines for deployment, increases the units’ physical readiness and honors currently deployed Marines, according to Staff Sgt. Robert Williams, a Pensacola, Fla., native, and Supply Response Division staff noncommissioned officer-in-charge. Photo by Cpl. Jeff Zaccaro
Marine Profile: Maj. Thomas Gore MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. – Maj. Thomas Gore, a pilot with Attack Squadron 223, received the Gen. Holland M. Smith Award for Operational Competence at a Navy League award ceremony Oct. 9, 2003. The award denotes Gore’s extraordinary effectiveness in achieving and maintaining the highest state of combat readiness throughout 2002 while serving as training officer, director of safety and standardization, and weapons and tactics instructor. Photo by Cpl. Nathaniel C. LeBlanc
May 14, 2004 The Department of Defense launches The Pentagon Channel, a news and information television service, with a live broadcast from the Armed Forces Day opening ceremony at Andrews Air Force Base, Md.
May 20, 2004 The 1st Force Service Support Group’s Air Delivery Plt. delivers a load of supplies, 22,000 pounds of food and bottled water, by parachute to a location in Iraq. This mission is the Marine Corps’ second combat supply drop since the Vietnam War.
May 18, 2004 Marine Attack Squadrons 542 and 214, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, arrive in Al Asad, Iraq, to augment the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force missions throughout western Iraq.
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HomeTraining www.usmc.mil Portraits of Patriotism •
Summer 2004
CAMP DAWSON, W.Va. – Marines from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit load a simulated casualty onto a CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter while conducting convoy operations training May 13, 2004. The training was part of the MEU’s Training in an Urban Environment Exercise, giving the Marines experience in dealing with urban combat situations they may face on their upcoming deployment. During the training the Marines simulated being ambushed by persons using improvised explosive devices on the side of the road. TRUEX allowed the Marines of the MEU to train in urban combat scenarios. Photo by Sgt. Zachary A. Bathon MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, Calif. – Lance Cpl. Francisco J. Conroy, a mortarman with Weapons Co., 3rd Bn., 7th Marines, stands guard by a door and provides security for other Marines who search for mock insurgents, weapons and explosives. The Marines were the first of several battalions with the 1st Marine Division practicing security and stabilization operations at the village of Matilda, a simulated Iraqi village on the air base, before redeployment to Iraq. Some of the nearly 400 vacant homes on March Air Reserve Base were turned into mosques, cafes, police stations and many other buildings to add a bit more believability to the scenario. The training gave Marines an idea of what life will be like in the upcoming months. Photo by Sgt. Jose L. Garcia
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – Marines perform side-straddle hops in the gas chamber at Camp Las Flores Jan. 7, 2004. Marines were also required to shake their heads vigorously to demonstrate their M40A1 Field Protective Masks’ ability to remain sealed. The gas, a mild chemical irritant also known as CS, is not lethal, but if Marines fail to properly fit their masks before they enter the training chamber, they will immediately know. The CS gas is used during training to bolster Marines’ confidence in their protective masks. Photo by Lance Cpl. Samuel Bard Valliere
May 20, 2004 Marines based at Camp Taqaddum, Iraq, have unearthed some of the largest stockpiles of weapons found this year. More than 1,000 mortars, artillery shells and rockets—discovered by Weapons Co., 3rd Bn., 24th Marines—have been either captured or destroyed.
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May 28, 2004 U.S. forces in Iraq average about 2,000 patrols in a 24-hour period, with an average of 300 being joint patrols with Iraqi coalition partners; Iraqi security forces are conducting an additional 150 independent patrols, according to Maj. Gen. John F. Sattler, the U.S. Central Command operations director.
May 27, 2004 The 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) departs San Diego nearly a month earlier than scheduled in response to a request from U.S. Central Command for more forces in Iraq.
May 29, 2004 Marines from 2nd Bn., 7th Marines, and soldiers with the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps establish a new Joint Coordination Center at Camp Hit, Iraq.
MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. – Lance Cpl. Charles C. Shipman, 20, a Corinth, Miss., native and machine gunner from 3rd Bn., 5th Marines, aims his machine gun downrange for a practice run at Range 400 May 13, 2004. The 11-day live-fire training exercise is a for dress rehearsal for the regiment which is preparing for operations in another desert half a world away. With more than 950 square miles of desert, the center offers large training areas and challenging terrain. After this the regiment will gear up for Combined Arms Exercise, which encompasses all the skills a Marine Air Ground Task Force is required to perform in a real-world operation. Photo by Cpl. Robert M. Storm
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, Iraq – While on guard duty each morning, Cpl. Charles A. Brown, a 1st Marine Division topographic analyst, greets everybody who enters and leaves the command operations center. Brown, 22, of Victorville, Calif., joined the Marine Corps in May 2000, after graduating a year early from Victor Valley High School. Photo by Cpl. Paula M. Fitzgerald
Marine Profile: Cpl. Charles A. Brown
May 29, 2004 The Marines of Combat Service Support Bn. 7 have logged more than 140,000 miles on the roads of Iraq to deliver more than 6.5 million pounds of repair parts, supplies and equipment to the 1st Marine Division and 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.
May 30, 2004 The World War II memorial on the National Mall in Washington is officially dedicated.
June 1, 2004 Marines from 2nd Bn., 2nd Marines, screen more than 30 Iraqi men for potential recruits for the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps.
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June 3, 2004 The Belleau Wood Expeditionary Strike Group, with 4,000 Marines and sailors commanded by Brig. Gen. Joseph V. Medina, are underway from Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and headed to the Western Pacific in support of the war on terrorism. Brig. Gen. Medina is the first Marine general to ever be assigned as a commander of naval ships.
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June 5, 2004 After a six-month deployment in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, more than 335 sailors from Patrol Squadron 47 return to Marine Corps Base Hawaii.
June 4, 2004 Country music star Toby Keith and rock legend Ted Nugent, perform for a crowd of I Marine Expeditionary Force Marines and sailors at Camp Fallujah, Iraq.
June 6, 2004 Ronald Reagan, the 40th president of the United States, dies at the age of 93.
LOS ANGELES – Capt. Brian Manifor, operations officer, Recruit Training Regiment, Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, pays his final respects to Staff Sgt. Allan Walker at Los Angeles National Cemetery April 23, 2004. Walker, 28, a Lancaster native, who served with B Co., 1st Recruit Training Bn., prior to his deployment, was killed by hostile fire April 6, 2004, in Al Anbar province, Iraq. Photo by Sgt. Ethan E. Rocke
June 7, 2004 Marine Attack Squadron 214, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, along with its sister squadron Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 542, MAG-14, 2nd MAW, arrive to Al Asad, Iraq, to augment MAG-16, 3rd MAW.
June 11, 2004 Nearly 500 Marines attend first the Friday Night Fights boxing event in Camp Al Asad, Iraq.
June 14, 2004 Marines from the ground combat element of Marine Air-Ground Task Force 8 begin returning to the United States after completing more than three months of stability and security operations in Haiti.
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InTown www.usmc.mil Portraits of Patriotism •
Summer 2004
By Lt. Col. Greg Reeder, HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS, Washington
InTown MARINE CORPS continues to exist because “the American public wants a Marine Corps.” The Corps gives back in return. Marines give their service in the global war on terror, operations around the world, humanitarian aid to those in need, assistance to nations on the verge of civil war, and countless other locations to help protect freedom. Marines give equally at home — intertwined in America. Off base, “in town” and throughout American communities, Marines and the Corps’ supporters devote themselves to service. Baseball games, community events, retirement homes and local schools are only a few of the locations we have grown accustomed to finding Marines. They present flags to honor our nation, provide Marine bands to entertain, visit the elderly to remind them we care, and assist schools to support our teachers building a solid foundation for our children. Motivation, as they say, is contagious. Beyond the front gates of the base, others join in the parade of community involvement. The Young Marines program devotes itself to helping children build character, teamwork and live a healthy lifestyle. The Marine Moms organization provides a way for others to connect so they can help inform and support their community. And the Toys for Tots program unites community members and Marines in a common cause to bring a message of hope and happiness to needy children. No matter whether they are coordinating the Marine Corps marathon for thousands of runners or paying silent tribute to a fallen comrade, Marines understand their call to serve their town, community and nation.
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T HAS BEEN SAID THAT THE
SAN DIEGO – The color guard from Headquarters and Service Bn., Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, joined color guards from the Navy and Coast Guard Aug. 29, 2003, at Qualcomm Stadium to kick off the festivities at the San Diego Chargers’ 15th annual Salute to the Military. “It was a real honor to represent the Marine Corps in front of all those people,” said Lance Cpl. Yuri Schneider, a member of the color guard. “It was an awesome feeling to be down on the field while everyone in the stands chanted ‘USA’ over and over. It made me even more proud to be a Marine.” Photo by Cpl. Ethan E. Rocke
CENTRAL AFGHANISTAN – Sgt. Anthony Viggiani, 24, of Strongsville, Ohio, pauses after a fierce firefight with anti-coalition militia in central Afghanistan. Sometime during the fight, an enemy bullet fired by ACM fighters further up the valley, sliced through Viggiani’s lower left leg. Despite the wound, Viggiani continued to engage the enemy with rifle fire until the area was cleared and a total of one wounded and four dead enemy fighters were found. Viggiani is a squad leader in C Co., Battalion Landing Team 1st Bn., 6th Marines, the ground combat element of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable). Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Keith A. Milks
June 20, 2004 Marines and sailors from Combat Service Support Detachment 20 leave Portau-Prince, Haiti, to return to Camp Lejeune, N.C.
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June 19, 2004 Marines from L Co., 3rd Bn., 1st Marines, leave Camp Pendleton, Calif., for Iraq.
Marine Profile: Sgt. Anthony Viggiani July 24, 2004 A 900-page 9/11 Commission Report, released by U.S. Congress, analyzes the events leading up to Sept. 11, 2001, and points to internal problems within the FBI, CIA and the National Security Agency.
June 21, 2004 Space Ship One, built by aviation pioneer Burt Rutan, went over space’s 62-mile boundary to become the first private manned spacecraft to fly to the edge of space and back.
MARSHALL, N.C. – Marines and future Marines from Recruiting Substation Asheville and Recruiting Station, Columbia, S.C., get together for a celebration with sparklers July 4, 2004. The team spent part of their weekend here participating in a rodeo to celebrate Independence Day. Photo by Sgt. Eric Lucero
ARLINGTON, Va. – More than 21,000 runners surged across the starting line at the 28th Annual Marine Corps Marathon Oct. 26, 2003. The 26.2-mile course began and ended near the Marine Corps War Memorial across the Potomac River from Washington and passed near several landmarks of the Washington area, including the Pentagon, the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. Photo by Lance Cpl. J. Agg
June 30, 2004 Marines raised the American flag at the new U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, marking the first time an American flag has flown there in 13 years.
June 28, 2004 Two days early, the United States turns over sovereign control of Iraq to an interim Iraqi government.
July 7, 2004 Marines from Marine Wing Support Squadron 273 and soldiers from the Army’s 767th Engineer Team fight a fire that swept through Camp Al Asad, Iraq, burning the belongings of more than 100 Marines.
July 2, 2004 The Marines from 3rd Bn., 1st Marines, known as the “Thundering Third,” conducts a battalionsized raid in Al Anbar province, cordoning As Serifah, a village east of Kharma. The Marines detain high-value targets and uncover stores of weapons and improvised explosive devices.
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FallenBrothers-In-Arms Marines who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the Global War on Terror from Jan. 9, 2002- Sept. 20, 2004. Capt. Matthew W. Bancroft, Jan. 9, 2002, Pakistan • Lance Cpl. Bryan P. Bertrand, Jan. 9, 2002, Pakistan • Gunnery Sgt. Stephen L. Bryson, Jan. 9, 2002, Pakistan • Staff Sgt. Scott N. Germosen, Jan. 9, 2002, Pakistan • Sgt. Nathan P. Hays, Jan. 9, 2002, Pakistan • Capt. Daniel G. McCollum, Jan. 9, 2002, Pakistan • Sgt. Jeannette L. Winters, Jan. 9, 2002, Pakistan • Staff Sgt. Walter F. Cohee III, Jan. 20, 2002, Afghanistan • Staff Sgt. Dwight J. Morgan, Jan. 20, 2002, Afghanistan • Lance Cpl. Antonio J. Sledd, Oct. 8, 2002, Kuwait • Pfc. James R. Dillon Jr., March 13, 2003, Kuwait • Maj. Jay Thomas Aubin, March 21, 2003, Kuwait • Capt. Ryan Anthony Beaupre, March 21, 2003, Kuwait • 2nd Lt. Therrel S. Childers, March 21, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Jose Gutierrez, March 21, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Brian Matthew Kennedy, March 21, 2003, Kuwait • Staff Sgt. Kendall Damon Waters-Bey, March 21, 2003, Kuwait • Sgt. Nicholas M. Hodson, March 22, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Eric James Orlowski, March 22, 2003, Iraq • Sgt. Michael E. Bitz, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Brian Rory Buesing, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Pfc. Tamario D. Burkett, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Kemaphoom A. Chanawongse, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Donald J. Cline, Jr., March 23, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. David K. Fribley, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Jose A. Garibay, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Pvt. Jonathan L. Gifford, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Jorge A. Gonzalez, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Pvt. Nolen R. Hutchings, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Staff Sgt. Phillip A. Jordan, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Sgt. Brendon C. Reiss, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Thomas J. Slocum, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Thomas A. Blair, March 24, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Evan T. James, March 24, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Patrick R. Nixon, March 23, 2003, Iraq • 1st Lt. Frederick E. Pokorney Jr., March 23, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Randal Kent Rosacker, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Michael J. Williams, March 23, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Jeffrey C. Burgess, March 25, Iraq
Summer 2004
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Portraits of Patriotism
www.usmc.mil
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Pfc. Francisco A. Martinez-Flores, March 25, 2003, Iraq • Staff Sgt. Donald C. May, Jr., March 25, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Patrick T. O’Day, March 25, 2003, Iraq • Major Kevin G. Nave, March 26, 2003, Iraq • Gunnery Sgt. Joseph Menusa, March 27, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Jesus A. Suarez Del Solar, March 27, 2003, Iraq • Sgt. Fernando Padilla-Ramirez, March 28, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Robert M. Rodriguez, March 28, 2003, Iraq • Staff Sgt. James W. Cawley, March 29, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. William W. White, March 29, 2003, Iraq • Capt. Aaron J. Contreras, March 30, 2003, Iraq • Sgt. Michael V. Lalush, March 30, 2003, Iraq • Sgt. Brian D. McGinnis, March 30, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Joseph B. Maglione, April 1, 2003, Kuwait • Lance Cpl. Brian E. Anderson, April 2, 2003, Iraq • Pfc. Christian D. Gurtner, April 2, 2003, Iraq • Pfc. Chad E. Bales, April 3, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Mark A. Evnin, April 3, 2003, Iraq • Capt. Travis A. Ford, April 4, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Bernard G. Gooden, April 4, 2003, Iraq • 1st Lt. Brian M. McPhillips, April 4, 2003, Iraq • Sgt. Duane R. Rios, April 4, 2003, Iraq • Capt. Benjamin W. Sammis, April 4, 2003, Iraq • 1st Sgt. Edward Smith, April 5, 2003, Qatar • Lance Cpl. Andrew Julian Aviles, April 7, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Jesus Martin Antonio Medellin, April 7, 2003, Iraq • Pfc. Juan Guadalupe Garza Jr., April 8, 2003, Iraq • Gunnery Sgt. Jeffrey E. Bohr, Jr., April 10, 2003, Iraq • Staff Sgt. Riayan A. Tejeda, April 11, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Jesus A. Gonzalez, April 12, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. David Edward Owens Jr., April 12, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Armando Ariel Gonzalez, April 14, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Jason David Mileo, April 14, 2003, Iraq • CWO2 Andrew Todd Arnold, April 22, 2003, Iraq • CWO2 Robert William Channell Jr., April 22, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Alan Dinh Lam, April 22, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Cedric E. Bruns, May 9, 2003, Kuwait • Lance Cpl. Matthew R. Smith, May 10, 2003, Kuwait • Lance Cpl. Jakub Henryk Kowalik, May 12, 2003, Iraq •
Pfc. Jose Franci Gonzalez Rodriguez, May 12, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Douglas Jose Marencoreyes, May 18, 2003, Iraq • Capt. Andrew David LaMont, May 19, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Jason William Moore, May 19, 2003, Iraq • 1st Lt. Timothy Louis Ryan, May 19, 2003, Iraq • Sgt. Kirk Allen Straseskie, May 19, 2003, Iraq • Staff Sgt. Aaron Dean White, May 19, 2003, Iraq • Sgt. Jonathan W. Lambert, June 1, 2003, Germany (from injuries in Iraq) • Capt. Seth R. Michaud, June 6, 2003, Djibouti • Pfc. Ryan R. Cox, June 15, 2003 • Lance Cpl. Gregory E. MacDonald, June 25, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Jason Andrew Tetrault, July 9, 2003, Kuwait • Lance Cpl. Cory Ryan Geurin, July 15, 2003, Iraq • Pfc. Matthew G. Milczark, March 8, 2004, Kuwait • Pfc. Ricky A. Morris Jr., March 18, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Brandon C. Smith, March 18, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. David M. Vicente, March 19, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Andrew S. Dang, March 22, 2004, Iraq • Sgt. Bradley S. Korthaus, March 24, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. James A. Casper, March 25, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Leroy Sandoval Jr., March 26, 2004, Iraq • Master Sgt. Timothy Toney, March 27, 2004, Kuwait • Lance Cpl. William J. Wiscowiche, March 30, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Dustin M. Sekula, April 1, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Aric J. Barr, April 3, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Erik H. Silva, April 3, 2003, Iraq • Cpl. Tyler R. Fey, April 4, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Geoffery S. Morris, April 4, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Shane L. Goldman, April 5, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Moises A. Langhorst, April 5, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Christopher Ramos, April 5, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Matthew K. Serio, April 5, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Jesse L. Thiry, April 5, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Benjamin R. Carman, April 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Marcus M. Cherry, April 6, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Christopher R. Cobb, April 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Kyle D. Crowley, April 6, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Deryk L. Hallal, April 6, 2004, Iraq •
Pfc. Ryan M. Jerabek, April 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Anthony P. Roberts, April 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Travis J. Layfield, April 6, 2004, Iraq • Staff Sgt. Allan K. Walker, April 6, 2004, Iraq • 2nd Lt. John T. Wroblewski, April 6, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Christopher D. Mabry, April 7, 2004, Iraq • Capt. Brent L. Morel, April 7, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Levi T Angell, April 8, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Nicholas J. Dieruf, April 8, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Phillip E. Frank, April 8, 2004, Iraq • Staff Sgt. William M. Harrell, April 8, 2004, Iraq • 1st Lt. Joshua M. Palmer, April 8, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Michael B. Wafford, April 8, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Christopher B Wasser, April 8, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Eric A. Ayon, April 9, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Matthew E. Matula, April 9, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Chance R. Phelps, April 9, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Michael R. Speer, April 9, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Elias Torrez III, April 9, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. John T. Sims Jr., April 10, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Daniel R. Amaya, April 11, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Torrey L. Gray, April 11, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Brad S. Shuder, April 12, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Robert P. Zurheide Jr., April 12, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Kevin T. Kolm, April 13, 2004, Iraq • Staff Sgt. Jimmy J. Arroyave, April 15, 2004, Iraq • Capt. Richard J. Gannon II, April 17, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Michael J. Smith Jr., April 17, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Ruben Valdez Jr., April 17, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Gary F. VanLeuven, April 17, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Christopher A. Gibson, April 18, 2004 • Cpl. Jason L. Dunham, April 22, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Aaron C. Austin, April 26, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Scott M. Vincent, April 30, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Joshua S. Wilfong, April 30, 2004, Iraq • Gunnery Sgt. Ronald E. Baum, May 3, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Jeffrey G. Green, May 5, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Dustin H. Schrage, May 6, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Ronald R. Payne Jr., May 8, 2004, Afghanistan •
Lance Cpl. Jeremiah E. Savage, May 12, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Brian K. Cutter, May 13, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Nicholas B. Kleiboeker, May 13, 2003, Iraq • Pfc. Brandon C. Sturdy, May 13, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Bob W. Roberts, May 17, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Michael M. Carey, May 18, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Rudy Salas, May 20, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Andrew J. Zabierek, May 21, 2004, Iraq • Staff Sgt. Jorge A. Molina Bautista, May 23, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Kyle W. Codner, May 26, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Matthew C. Henderson, May 26, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Dominique J. Nicolas, May 26, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Cody S. Calavan, May 29, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Benjamin R. Gonzalez, May 29, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Rafael Reynosasuarez, May 29, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Dustin L. Sides, May 31, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Bum R. Lee, June 2, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Todd J. Bolding, June 3, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Jeremy L. Bohlman, June 7, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Sean Horn, June 19, 2004, Iraq • Staff Sgt. Marvin Best, June 20, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Russell P. White, June 20, 2004, Afghanistan • Lance Cpl. Pedro Contreras, June 21, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Juan Lopez, June 21, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Deshon E. Otey, June 21, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Tommy L. Parker Jr., June 21, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Daniel B. McClenney, June 24, 2004, Afghanistan • Lance Cpl. Juston T. Thacker, June 24, 2004, Afghanistan • Lance Cpl. Manuel A. Ceniceros, June 26, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Patrick R. Adle, June 29, 2004, Iraq • Sgt. Alan D. Sherman, June 29, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. John H. Todd III, June 29, 2004, Iraq • Sgt. Kenneth Conde Jr., July 1, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Timothy R. Creager, July 1, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Travis J. Bradachnall, July 2, 2003, Iraq • Lance Cpl. James B. Huston Jr., July 2, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Dallas L. Kerns, July 5, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Michael S. Torres, July 5, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. John J. Vangyzen IV, July 5, 2004, Iraq •
Pfc. Rodricka A. Youmans, July 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Scott E. Dougherty, July 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Justin T. Hunt, July 6, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Jeffrey D. Lawrence, July 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Scott E. Dougherty, July 6, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Rodricka A. Youmans, July 6, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Terry Holmes, July 10, 2004, Iraq • Sgt. Krisna Nachampassak, July 10, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Christopher J. Reed, July 10, 2004, Iraq • Staff Sgt. Trevor Spink, July 10, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Bryan P. Kelly, July 16, 2004, Iraq • Staff Sgt. Michael J. Clark, July 20, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Todd J. Godwin, July 20, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Mark E. Engel, July 21, 2004, Texas (from injuries in Iraq) • Lance Cpl. Vincent M. Sullivan, July 23, 2004, Iraq • Lt. Col. David S. Greene, July 28, 2004, Iraq • Gunnery Sgt. Shawn A. Lane, July 28, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Dean P. Pratt, Aug. 2, 2004, Iraq • Capt. Gregory A Ratzlaff, Aug. 3, 2004, Iraq • Gunnery Sgt. Elia P. Fontecchio, Aug. 4, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Joseph L. Nice, Aug. 4, 2004, Iraq • Sgt. Yadir G. Reynoso, Aug. 5, 2004, Iraq • Sgt. Moses D. Rocha, Aug. 5, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Roberto Abad, Aug. 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Larry L. Wells, Aug. 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Jonathan W. Collins, Aug. 8, 2004, Iraq • Staff Sgt. John R. Howard, Aug. 11, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Tavon L. Hubbard, Aug. 11, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Kane M. Funke, Aug. 13, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Nicholas B. Morrison, Aug. 13, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Fernando B. Hannon, Aug. 15, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Geoffrey Perez, Aug. 15, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Caleb J. Powers, Aug 17, 2004, Iraq • Sgt. Richard M. Lord, Aug. 18, 2004, Iraq • Sgt. Harvey E. Parkerson III, Aug 18, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Dustin R. Fitzgerald, Aug 18, 2004, Iraq • Gunnery Sgt. Edward T. Reeder, Aug. 21, 2004, Iraq • Sgt. Jason Cook, Aug. 21, 2004, Iraq •
Cpl. Nicanor Alvarez, Aug. 21, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Seth Huston, Aug. 21, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Nachez Washalanta, Aug. 21, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Christopher Belchik, Aug. 22, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Jacob R. Lugo, Aug. 24, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Alexander S. Arredondo, Aug. 25, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Nicholas M. Skinner, Aug. 26, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Nickalous N. Aldrich, Aug. 27, 2004, Iraq • Sgt. Edgar E. Lopez, Aug. 28, 2004, Iraq • Capt. Alan Rowe, Sept. 3, 2004, Iraq • 1st Lt. Ronald Winchester, Sept. 3, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Nicholas Perez, Sept. 3, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Nicholas Wilt, Sept. 3, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Mick R. Nygardbekowsky, Sept. 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Michael J. Allred, Sept. 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Derek L. Gardner, Sept. 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Quinn A. Keith, Sept. 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Joseph C. McCarthy, Sept. 6, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Lamont N. Wilson, Sept. 6, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. David P. Burridge, Sept. 6, 2004, Iraq • 1st Lt. Alexander E. Wetherbee, Sept. 12, 2004, Iraq • Pfc. Jason T. Poindexter, Sept. 12, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Jaygee Meluat, Sept. 13, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Adrian V. Soltau, Sept. 13, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Dominic C. Brown, Sept. 13, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Michael J. Halal, Sept. 13, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Cesar F. Machado-Olmos, Sept. 13, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Mathew D. Puckett, Sept. 13, 2004, Iraq • Maj. Kevin M. Shea, Sept. 14, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Gregory C. Howman, Sept. 15, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Drew M. Uhles, Sept. 15, 2004, Iraq • 1st Lt. Andrew K. Stern, Sept. 16, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Steven A. Rintamaki, Sept 16, 2004, Iraq • Cpl. Christopher S. Ebert, Sept. 17, 2004, Iraq • Lance Cpl. Steven C. T. Cates, Sept. 20, 2004, Iraq •
SEMPER FIDELIS