The Jet Stream Nov. 27, 2015 by The Jet Stream

Jet Stream The

Friday, November 27, 2015 Vol. 50, No. 47 Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C.

“The noise you hear is the sound of freedom.” 2 3 facebook.com/MCASBeaufort 3 Beaufort.Marines.mil

twitter.com/MCASBeaufortSC

Ceremony marks official reopening of Library – Page 4

U.S. Marines, Malaysian soldiers complete MALUS AMPHEX 15– Page 9

3/6 fires mortars rain or shine – Page 9

Thunderbolt jets, pilots return home

Story and photos on Page 8 Photo by Lance Cpl. Jonah Lovy

An F/A-18C Hornet taxis aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort after returning from Operation Inherent Resolve Nov. 21. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251, from MCAS Beaufort, has been deployed aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt since March. VMFA-251 is with Marine Aircraft Group 31.

Marines come together to celebrate Thanksgiving Story and photos by: Lance Cpl. Samantha K. Torres Staff Writer

It’s the time of the year when Marines join their families, friends and loved ones in celebration of Thanksgiving. This traditional day of thanks, started by the Pilgrim and Puritan settlers, is celebrated all around the world by Americans, especially those wearing a service uniform. Across units on Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort the celebration of this traditional holiday is in full effect. From traditional meals served at the mess hall to squadron events, Marines Marines serve themselves during a Thanksgiving luncheon at the chapel aboard Marine Corps are getting the opportunity to taste a Air Station Beaufort Nov. 17. The luncheon was coordinated by the leaders of Headquarters and piece of home. Headquarters Squadron to promote camaraderie throughout the unit. The Marines are with H&HS.

Marines, sailors, and their families from Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron were amongst the first to celebrate aboard the air station. The top leadership of the squadron coordinated and held a Thanksgiving luncheon at the Station Chapel Nov. 17. “As a command, we want the Marines and their families to understand how important they are to us, therefore, we as a command coordinated a Thanksgiving meal for the Marines and their families to enjoy as well as just getting to know one another,” said Sgt. Maj. Edward Hebron, the sergeant major for H&HS. see

THANKSGIVING, page 8

Tri-Command Chaplains Celebrate 240th Anniversary Story and photos by: Lance Cpl. Samantha K. Torres Staff Writer

Cmdr. Stephen Gammon, left, and Lt. Ron Wade cut a cake for the 240th Chaplain Corps Anniversary celebration Nov. 18. Gammon is the most senior commissioned Chaplain attending the celebration, and Wade is the most junior. Gammon is the Deputy Assistant Chief of Staff, Religious Ministries, Parris Island, and Wade is the command chaplain at Naval Hospital Beaufort.

Active duty and retired chaplains from around the Tri-Command held a celebration in honor of the 240th Chaplain Corps anniversary aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Nov. 18. The ceremony included guest speakers from the TriCommand, along with a cake cutting ceremony performed by the most junior and senior commissioned chaplain and a full Thanksgiving dinner. “Fellow Chaplains, friends, and retirees who have been a part of the Chaplain Corps, let me take this moment to thank you all for coming,” said Cmdr. William Holiman, the station chaplain aboard MCAS Beaufort. “Our 240th anniversary would not have been possible

without your service.” There were four guest speakers at the event. Each had the opportunity to tell stories about their service and share their experiences as Chaplains. “We serve them, they don’t serve us,” said Ted Crandall, a retired chaplain and current Marine Aircraft Group 31 family readiness officer. “As long as we take care of them, they will take care of us.” Chaplains have served Marines and sailors since 1798, when William Balch was commissioned as the first chaplain in the U.S. Navy. Referring to Marines and sailors, Crandall explained the importance of chaplains to service members, and how a chaplain is there in peacetime and in times of conflict. see

CHAPLAINS, page 6

The Jet Stream

Games and Entertainment

Friday, November 27, 2015

MCAS Beaufort Movie Schedule

Saturday 4:30 p.m. PG-13 (1:46)

Saturday 2 p.m. PG (1:43)

Mess Hall Menu

Saturday 7:00 p.m. R (1:36)

MCRD Parris Island Movie Schedule

Monday - Friday Saturday, Sunday Breakfast: 6 - 7:30 a.m. and holidays Lunch: 11 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Brunch: 8:30 - 11 a.m. Dinner: 4 - 6 p.m. Dinner: 4 - 6 p.m. Midrats Sunday - Thursday 11:30 p.m. - 1 a.m. Takeout window hours Breakfast - Mon. - Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. Lunch - Mon. - Fri. 12:45 p.m. - 4 p.m. Dinner - Mon. - Fri. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday Lunch Dinner Shrimp cocktail, fried Bayou jerk pork loin chicken, steak and rice Lunch Salmon with cucumber relish

Sunday

Sunday 2 p.m. PG (1:43)

Sunday 4:30 p.m. PG-13 (2:24)

Sunday 7 p.m. R (1:59)

Thanksgiving Word Search

Dinner Baked ziti with italian sausage

Monday - Friday Breakfast Hot farina, hot hominy grits and oven-fried bacon Monday Dinner Lunch Spicy shrimp with Baked smoked ham cheesy grits and sweet potatoes Tuesday Dinner Lunch Herbed roast pork Chicken and dumploin with pan gravy lings and rice Wednesday Dinner Lunch Manhattan clam Roast turkey and chowder green beans Thursday Dinner Lunch Apple glazed corn Arroz con pollo and beef and squash garlic bread Friday Dinner Lunch Chili macaroni and Herbed baked green beans chicken and carrots

Chapel Services Roman Catholic • 9:30 a.m. - Sunday Mass • Confession takes place before Mass • Confession Monday - Thursday at noon Protestant • 9:45 a.m. - Protestant Church School (Sunday School) • 11 a.m. - Protestant Sunday Worship Service (Children’s church is also available at this time) • 5 p.m. - Wednesday Protestant Bible Study • 5 p.m. - Saturday Worship Service at Laurel Bay Youth Center Buddhist • 11 a.m. - Saturday Worship Service in the Chapel Fellowship Hall Labyrinth Walk • 8 a.m - 4 p.m. - Monday in the Chapel Fellowship Hall Other Faith Groups • For Jewish, Mormon and Islamic support, contact the Chaplain’s Office at 228-7775

See something suspicious Say something.

Word Bank

APPLES BAKE BALES BISCUIT BROCOLLI CARVING CHEESE CIDER

CORN CRACKERS CROWD DELICIOUS DINNER EATING ENTERTAIN FAMILY

Sudoku

GATHERING GOURD GRAVY HAY HOSTESS MEAT OVEN POTATOES

POUNDS PUMPKIN PIE RICE ROAST SAVORY SCARECROW SOUP STUFFING

SWEET THANKSGIVING THURSDAY TURKEY WREATH YAMS

Nov 20th solution

Call (843) 228-6710 / 911 - IMMEDIATELY

Hotlines

MCAS Beaufort Station Inspector Sexual Assault Response Coordinator Force Protection information and concerns PMO Dispatch Severe Weather and Force Protection

228-7789 228-6904 228-6924

Nov 20th solution

228-6710 1-800-343-0639

Sexual Assault The contact number for a Uniformed Victim Advocate is 592-0646. This number can get you in contact with a UVA 24 hours a day.

Fraud, Waste and Abuse

If you know of or suspect any fraud, waste or abuse aboard MCAS Beaufort, call 228-7777. If you know of or suspect any fraud, waste or abuse within MAG-31, call (252) 466-5038. The automated answering service on these lines is available 24 hours a day.

Answer to this week’s puzzles will be available in next week’s edition of The Jet Stream.

Command Information

The Jet Stream

HAPPENINGS n

Construction is

The Federal Avia-

complete on the MCAS

tion Administration is

Library and it is open

visiting MCAS Beau-

for buisness with the

fort Nov. 9. They will

following hours. Mon

be conducting inter-

- Thu: 0800 - 2000

view enable aircraft

Fri: 0800 - 1500

mechanics to start the

Sat: 1200 - 1700

process for the air-

Sun: Closed (PI Li-

frame and powerline

brary is open 10 am to

license. The interviews

4 pm)

will be conducted at

0930 in building 596, room 213. n Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held at the Station Chapel aboard MCAS Beaufort every Monday at 6 p.m. and Thursday at 10 a.m. Meetings are open to all service members,

veterans, and civilians within the Tri-Command. n The photocopying of U.S. Government identification cards is a violation of Title 18, U.S. Code Part 1, Chapter 33, Section 701 and punishable by fine and imprisonment.

Opinion-Editorial

Saving money: less thinking, more action By Lance Cpl. Jonah Lovy Staff Writer

Dealing with personal finances can be a daunting task for Marines not experienced or unaware of the resources available. From additional money earned while deployed, to further saving by cutting or eliminating excessive spending, there are a lot of factors to keep track of. Marines are often times fixated on short term investments like buying a brand new car or a flat screen T.V. Most people are guilty of buying something that maybe they could not afford just because they wanted it. Even though we have a steady income and a certain level of security in life, there is no reason to spend money that we do not have. I bought a guitar last year that cost me almost my entire paycheck. The guitar was beautiful and played like a dream but guess who was struggling to pay for gas and food the whole month; me. In the end I traded it in

for a used instrument I found at a pawn shop. It was not as flashy and it does not give any bragging rights but at least I can comfortably pay for my other expenses and I still get to play. The reality of our financial situation is that we do not have unlimited spending money. We may feel rich on pay day and maybe we can justify a few large purchases but we cannot account for what may happen in the future. The stereo system you buy today may be the reason you’re too broke to visit home tomorrow. There are simple things we can all do to manage money more responsibly. We should have a basic knowledge of money management, including budgeting, financial statements, life insurance, car and home buying and the basics of the thrift savings plan. It is a good idea to complete personal finance sheets to help calculate your debt-to-income ratio and begin planning a budget. When you budget all your income for one month you see that there is not

as much extra money lying around. Take everything you earn in a month then subtract all the bills you know you have to pay. When I account for my cell phone, car insurance, student loans, internet connection, etc., I do not have that much leftover cash. If you want to spend money on something big, like a car or a house, it is important to plan for it. Speak to your unit’s financial management officer about setting aside some money each paycheck to work toward your goal. Marine Corps Community Services also offers classes on how to better manage your finances. These courses are designed for Marines of all ranks and incomes. There is good information out there that will make it easier to understand your finances. Even though living paycheck to paycheck might not seem like a big deal right now, it is never too early to make a plan. In the future, you will be grateful for a support system that involves making a budget and saving money.

MWSS-273 Sweathogs

MALS-31 Stingers have detachments currently deployed to the Western Pacific supporting VMFA-251, VMFA-312, and VMFA(AW)-224.

VMFA-312 Checkerboards are currently deployed to the Western Pacific as part of the Unit Deployment Program.

VMFA(AW)-224 Bengals are currently deployed to the Western Pacific as part of the Unit Deployment Program.

November 27, 1950: In a carefully planned assault, eight Chinese Communist divisions in Korea launched a massive attack which had as its expressed purpose, the destruction of the 1st Marine Division. This action led to the successful southward Marine Corps attack out of the Changjin (Chosin) Reservoir to the coastal port of Hungnam.

Effective June 1, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort is in Tropical Cyclone Condition V for Hurricane season until Nov. 30. There are currently no threats. Due to El Nino conditions, it’s likely to be a below average tropical cyclone season for the Atlantic. NOAA is predicting 6-11 named storms, 3-6 hurricanes, and 0-2 major hurricanes. Monitor local weather sources to stay up to date and be prepared.

Jet Stream The

Public Affairs Officer Public Affairs Chief Sgt. Dengrier M. Baez

Press Chief

Sgt. Dengrier M. Baez

Community Relations/Staff Writers Lance Cpl. Samantha K. Torres Lance Cpl. Jonah Lovy

Beaufort.Marines.mil

facebook.com/MCASBeaufort

twitter.com/MCASBeaufortSC

youtube.com/MCASBeaufortsc1

Tri-Command Weather 7 Day Forecast

Did you know...

Capt. Clayton Groover

Fightertown deployed: have a detachment of Marines currently deployed to Spain in support of SpecialPurpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa.

Friday, November 27, 2015

Editor’s note: We at The Jet Stream care about our reader’s opinion. In reaching our goal to put out the best possible product, we understand the importance of your feedback. Please add a comment to the “How can we improve The Jet Stream?” topic on our www. facebook.com/MCASBeaufort discussion board on how we can better your base newspaper. Published by the Savannah Morning News, a private firm in no way connected with the Department of Defense, the United States Marine Corps, the United States Navy, or Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C., under exclusive written contract with the United States Marine Corps. This commercial-enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Marine Corps or the U.S. Navy and do not imply endorsement thereof. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD, the Marine Corps, the Navy, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C., or the Savannah Morning News of the products or services advertised. Everything in this newspaper shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the contractor shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Editorial content (i.e., all content other than paid advertisements) is edited, prepared and provided by the public affairs office of the installation. All queries concerning news and editorial content should be directed to: Jet Stream, Marine Corps Public Affairs Office, P.O. Box 55001, MCAS Beaufort, S.C., 29904 or (843) 228-7225. All queries concerning business matters or display ads should be directed to the Savannah Morning News at (843) 815-0800.

The Jet Stream

In Other News

Friday, November 27, 2015

Ceremony marks official reopening of Library Story and photos by: Sgt. Dengrier M. Baez Public Affairs Chief

accessibility, color printing and faxing to name a few. The Marine Corps Air Station library was “I was very excited when I heard the news officially reopened during a ribbon cutting then,” said Krauss. “At the time there were only ceremony after a three-month renovation Nov. six facilities that were Premiere. We continue to 23. Marines, sailors and civilians aboard the air meet the criteria which changes periodically station attended the ceremony to commemoby staying up to date and offering more for the rate the event and visit the upgraded facility. Marines.” The renovation started at the beginning of AuSince 2012 the library remains one of the top gust and concluded early November. Furniture in the DOD and popular among the children ofand equipment were updated and added to the fering reading programs and computer services. facility to make it more comfortable and usable Although the young adult and children’s section for the library patrons. was combined with the adult sections dur“We’re here for the Marines and their families,” ing the transition, children are able to take full said Rose Krauss, the supervisory librarian at advantage of the facility. MCAS Beaufort. “We want to make the library a Programs like story time are still offered twice a friendly and welcoming place so everyone can month at the air station and every week on Laufind everything they need.” rel Bay. Also Santa is coming soon is a program Not only were the building, furniture and where a mailbox is placed in the building where shelving updated, but the technological capabili- children mail their letters to the North Pole. An ties and services offered were also enhanced. interactive computer for children where they The facility increased the computers available could learn various subjects is available as well. from 19 to 29, according to Krauss. “In the upcoming months the facility will add The biggest change during the renovation was Maker Spaces where Marines and their families the transition from the Dewey Decimal System can learn and create arts and crafts projects to the Semper FINDIT system. Semper FINDIT together,” said Krauss. “For example, a father groups titles by subject, called neighborhoods, and son can create a small model helicopter where Dewey organizes library materials by that can later be flown by remote control using discipline or field of study. There are currently 41 the resources from Maker Spaces- learning and neighborhoods. creating together.” “I think the new changes at the library will The transition is an ongoing process as the encourage Marines to come and use it more ofstaff continues to catalogue the library materials ten,” said Cpl. Jopher Rusinque, a marksmanship into the new system and offer more services for instructor with Headquarters and Headquarters the Marines and their families. Sections like the Squadron. Commandant’s reading list have been relocated The library is one of four in the pilot program towards the entrance to make it easier for the trying out this new system. The other three Marines to find. installations are on MCAS Cherry Point, Marine MCAS Beaufort leadership and library staff Corps Base Camp Lejeune and MCAS Iwakuni. thanked the Marines and volunteers who helped The goal is to have every library across the during the planning, execution, and completion Department of Defense using the same system of the renovation. by 2020. However, at the moment, the Marine “I think it’s a positive transition,” said Col. Peter Corps is the only service branch implementing it. D. Buck, the commanding officer of MCAS The library at the air station received premiere Beaufort. “Marines and their families will come status in 2012 for not only meeting the core through and use this facility as they had in the standards expected of every facility but going past. Many thanks have to go to volunteers and above and beyond by meeting 12-13 additional staff members that were able to make it hapstandards. Those standards are handicapped pened.”

Rose Krauss, left, Col. Peter D. Buck, center, and Gary Cassevah, cut a ribbon during a ceremony for the reopening of the library aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Nov. 23. The library finished a three-month renovation where the building, furniture and shelving were upgraded. The ceremony marked the official reopening of the library. Krauss is the supervisory librarian at MCAS Beaufort. Buck is the commanding officer of the air station. Cassevah is the director of Marine Corps Community Services.

Never leave a Marine behind Story by: Sgt. Dengrier M. Baez Public Affairs Chief The Marine Corps sees suicide prevention as the responsibility of the entire Marine Corps community and the duty of every Marine, family member, and friend. November is suicide awareness month and during its observation the focus is to educate about prevention and encourage those who are troubled to seek help. “In terms of the burden of suicide, it is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States,” said Dr. Melinda Moore, an assistant professor in the department of psychology at Eastern Kentucky University during her visit at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. Every year, more than one million Americans attempt suicide and is now the leading cause of death among service members according to the Department of Veteran’s Affairs.

In order to help those who may be at risk, knowing what to look for and what to do is important. Some of the warning signs are: talking about dying, preparing to die— giving away belongings, saying goodbye to family and friends and looking for ways to die. Also change in personality or emotions, behaviors, sleep patterns, or eating habits, low selfesteem and no hope for the future are potential warning signs. The warning signs are not always straightforward or obvious at a glance. Understanding the risk factors will help identify those not exhibiting any signs of distress. Those factors can be relationship problems, legal or work problems, family history of suicide, alcohol or drug use, history of physical or sexual abuse, social isolation, physical illness, depression, past suicide attempt, history of violence or hostility and unwillingness to seek help.

Everyone needs to know what to do if someone is showing the signs of wanting to hurt themselves. Ask open-ended questions, i.e., “how are things going?” Wait for them to start talking and don’t interrupt. Listening and lending support are more effective than not trying to talk them out of it. Show some genuine concern for their wellbeing. If need be remove any weapons, pills, or rope. Do not leave the Marine alone and seek professional help right away. If a suicide alert arises, remember the acronym R.A.C.E. • R-Recognize distress in your Marine: Note changes in personality, emotions or behavior. • A- Ask your Marine: Calmly question and if necessary ask directly, “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” • C- Care for your Marine: Don’t

Photo illustration by Cpl. Daniel A. Wetzel

Suicide is one of the top leading causes for deaths in the Corps. According to the Department of Defense the Marine Corps, both active and reserve components, had a total of 46 deaths due to suicide in 2014. So far this year there had been 17 deaths.

judge, control the situation peacefully and keep everyone safe. • E-Escort your Marine: Stay with your buddy and then escort to the chain of command, chaplain, medical, or behavioral health professional. Every branch of the

military has its own resources and ways to help those service members in need. Marine Corps Community Services has personnel readily available to provide help and guidance for Marines or family members going through a tough time. The number for the Behavioral Health Clinic at the Naval Hospital in

Beaufort is (843) 2285599. The suicide hotline number is (800) 2738225. The most important thing to do if you are concerned or recognize warning signs is to take action. If a buddy is suicidal you may not get a second chance to save the Marine’s life.

Classifieds

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Friday, November 27, 2015

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More of the Story

Friday, November 27, 2015

Photo by Lance Cpl. Samantha K. Torres

Retired and active duty Chaplains from the Tri-Command celebrate the 240th Chaplain Corps anniversary Nov. 18. The commanding officers from the Tri-Command attended the event to support the local Chaplains. The event was held at the log cabin aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.

CHAPLAINS continued from page 1

“For 240 years chaplains have inspired men and women on ship and in the field at times of peace and war, and grief and joy.” Cmdr.William Holiman CDR, CHC, MCAS Command Chaplain

“I learned by being with Marines, that we take care of junior Marines first because they are the warriors,” said Crandall. The role of a chaplain in the armed services is to speak with service members about matters of faith and help them through difficult times. Chaplains are also trained in consoling and crisis intervention. “For 240 years, chaplains have inspired men and women on ship and in the field at times of peace, war, grief, and joy,” said Holiman. Wherever there is a large number of Marines and sailors, there is a chaplain, and many chaplains in history have deployed to dangerous corners of the world, ensuring they are there to serve.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Samantha K. Torres

Cmdr. William Holiman starts the opening ceremony to the 240th Chaplain Corps anniversary celebration Nov. 18. Holiman addressed his fellow chaplains and their families with a welcoming message about how the Chaplain Corps was started. Holiman is the chaplain for Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.

Ted Crandall speaks at the 240th Chaplain Corps anniversary celebration Nov. 18. Crandall shared his experiences as an active duty chaplain and how it affected his life. Crandall emphasized the effect chaplains make for Marines and Sailors during times of peace and conflict. Crandall is the Family Readiness Officer for Marine Aircraft Group 31.

Classifieds

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Friday, November 27, 2015

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More of the Story

Friday, November 27, 2015

Thunderbolt jets, pilots return home

Photo by Lance Cpl. Jonah Lovy

A Marine waits for two F/A-18C Hornets aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort after their return from Operation Inherent Resolve Nov. 21. The Marine is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251, from MCAS Beaufort, and the jets have been deployed aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt since March. VMFA-251 is with Marine Aircraft Group 31.

S t o r y a n d p h o t o s by : Lan ce C p l . Jo n a h L ov y S t a f f W ri t e r

with.” Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251 played a vital role in the operation but they were not the only unit to deploy. Other Navy squadrons flew missions from the Roosevelt as well, but VMFA251 was the only F/A-18C squadron on the ship. “We were attached to the Navy for this deployment and the Navy support structure was really effective,” said Neimer. Approximately 200 personnel from VMFA-251 deployed to the USS Roosevelt. These Marines spent 32 weeks away from their home and family with limited contact. “The communication from our family readiness officer was great,” said Neimer. “Everyone did a great job of letting everyone back home know what was happening.” The service members were greeted on the MCAS Beaufort flight line by family members and loved ones. Many of the support Marines returned to the air station Nov. 17. “It was great coming out of the clouds today and seeing the low country,” said Neimer. “It is a great feeling to finally be home.” Operation Inherent Resolve refers to all military action against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant and will continue with support from the Marine Corps.

A Marine greets his family aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort after returning from Operation Inherent Resolve Nov. 21. The Marine is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251, from MCAS Beaufort, and has been deployed aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt since March. VMFA-251 is with Marine Aircraft Group 31.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Samantha K. Torres

Marines eat a Thanksgiving meal during a luncheon at the Station Chapel aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Nov. 17. Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron put together a Thanksgiving luncheon to bring the unit together and promote camaraderie. Marines and their families brought a variety of foods and desserts for the Marines and sailors in the unit.

A variety of traditional Thanksgiving dishes are served during a luncheon for Marines, sailors and their families at the Station Chapel aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Nov. 17. Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron held the luncheon to bring the unit together and promote camaraderie.

Pilots from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251 returned to Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort from Operation Inherent Resolve Nov. 21. The squadron was deployed aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt for eight months in support of the operation. The Marines joined a Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force in support of the operation. The mission of OIR is to dismantle and ultimately defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. Nine F/A-18C Hornets from VMFA251 were involved in the operation which began in March. The Marines of VMFA-251 supported Inherent Resolve with a combination of surveillance flights and strike missions. The pilots from Beaufort flew 1,873 flight hours over the course of the deployment, said Staff Sgt. Justin Hass, the operations chief with VMFA-251. The squadron collectively flew 291 combat missions and performed 230 weapons drops on the enemy. “We were out there to support the mission in whatever way we could,” said Lt. Col. Nicholas O. Neimer, the commanding officer of VMFA-251. “The Marines performed outstanding. I really could not have asked for a better group of Marines to go out there

Photo by Lance Cpl. Jonah Lovy

THANKSGIVING continued from page 1

The Marine Corps is a family and holidays like Thanksgiving gives the Marines a chance to come together and spend time with one another enhancing unit cohesion. Also, due to individual constraints not every Marine gets the opportunity to go home for the holidays and these unit coordinated events provide a much welcomed alternative. “It made the whole unit feel more like family for Marines who are unable to go home for the holidays,” said Lance Cpl. Garret Belew, an administration clerk with H&HS. “The food was great, and it was good seeing everyone come together.” The celebrations will continue through the Thanks-

giving period. Marines from the air station will have meals at their homes inviting those who won’t have a place to spend the day. Whether is driving a short distance to another Marine’s house or crossing state lines, leaders remind Marines to be cautious. “Thanksgiving is one of the busiest holidays of the year, and with all the excitement, travelers can become more focused on celebrations than getting to their destinations as safely as possible,” said Hebron. Vehicle related accidents are at an all-time high from Thanksgiving to New Years because of the high volume of traffic and drunk drivers according to the Department of Motor Vehicles. The command en-

courages Marines to have an emergency road kit in case of a breakdown and not to drive if alcohol is consumed. Like traveling, cooking can be dangerous. “Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food,” said Hebron. “Also make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids.” Remembering to keep safety precautions will ensure everyone’s enjoys their holiday and returns safely. Units across Fightertown will continue to host events for the Marines and sailors throughout the holiday season to promote unit cohesion and fortified the Marine Corps family.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Samantha K. Torres

A variety of desserts and sweets are set out for Marines and sailors at a Thanksgiving luncheon at the Station Chapel aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Nov. 17. The luncheon was coordinated by Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron’s top leaders to bring the unit together and promote camaraderie.

Around the Corps

The Jet Stream

Friday, November 27, 2015

U.S. Marines, Malaysian soldiers complete MALUS AMPHEX 15

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jesse Meinhardt blows on embers to start a fire using steel, a rock and dry straw in a jungle survival course during Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2015 in Tanduo, Malaysia on Nov. 11. Meinhardt is a rifleman with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. During the course, Marines learned how to use material found in the jungle to start and maintain a fire from Malaysian soldiers. The purpose of the exercise was to strengthen military cooperation in the planning and execution of amphibious operations between Malaysian armed forces and U.S. Marines. The 15th MEU is currently deployed in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to promote regional stability and security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. Story and photos by: Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit

TANDUO. Malaysia — Darkness fills the confined space. The aroma of exhaust and burning fuel is in the air. Some rest their eyes while others bow their heads mentally preparing. Suddenly the sound of metallic tracks making contact with the beach catches everyone’s attention. “We’re on the beach,” shouts Lance Cpl. John Figueroa over the sounds of the screeching tracks and roaring engine. Everyone inside grips their rifles tight and adjusts their helmets in preparation for what they know is coming. “Dropping ramp,” shouts Figueroa. There is a burst of intense light, and, for a moment, everyone inside is blinded. They quickly compose themselves. The ramp hits the sand with a thud, and U.S. Marines with Malaysian soldiers burst into action. This was the scene at the culminating training event for Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2015, a four-day-long bilateral training exercise between U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Malaysian Armed Forces. The exercise aimed to strengthen military cooperation and interoperability in the planning and execution of amphibious operations between the two countries. “The relationship between [U.S. military] and the Malaysian military are essential to theater security in the Western Pacific,” said Brig.

Gen. Christopher J. Mahoney, deputy commander of Marine Forces Pacific, during the opening ceremony. “Exercise like these ensure we continue to build on the foundation of a strong working relationship.” Training included amphibious operations, jungle survival, weapons and tactics familiarization, and cultural exchange between Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th MEU, and Malaysian soldiers. Almost immediately after arriving on the beach, Malaysian soldiers were geared up and getting acquainted with the AAV7A1 Assault Amphibious Vehicles, or AAVs. “They were mostly excited to see the tracks,” said Sgt. Russell Bloxsom, an AAV section chief with Kilo Co., BLT 3/1. “They had never seen them before, so they asked a lot of questions and took a lot of photos.” Bloxsom and his Marines taught the Malaysian soldiers the capabilities, limitations, and how AAVs are used in combat. “They picked up everything we taught them fast,” Bloxsom said. “Mostly, I think they were surprised at the many uses of the [AAVs].” After getting a firm understanding of the AAV, Marines and Malaysian soldiers paired up and began sharing infantry tactics and rehearsing for an amphibious beach assault. “The first day we did a beach assault to show them what it should look like,” said Cpl. Kevin Ta, a team leader with Kilo Co. “After that, we

integrated a fire team in with one of their squads so we could break down the basics of a beach assault.” While the Marines were integrated into the squads, their role was mainly to provide guidance when needed. The Malaysian soldiers planned their scheme of maneuver and were responsible for its execution. “For never having worked with [AAVs] before they did really well,” Ta said. “They put the tracks where they wanted them and their scheme of maneuver looked good.” In addition to the amphibious operations, the exercise also included jungle survival training led by the Malaysian soldiers. The training included building shelters, traps, snares, fires, as well as locating edible vegetation, and fresh water. “The training was great. I didn’t know there was so many terrains you had to prepare for in the jungle,” said Lance Cpl. Gary Gomez, a mortarman with Kilo Co. “The jungle is very giving, but it can be just as unforgiving if you don’t respect it.” During the course, the Malaysian soldiers taught the Marines how to prepare meals such as monitor lizard, python, bats, birds, turtles, and monkeys. At the conclusion of the course, Marines were presented with a feast of all the animals prepared in various ways. “You’d be surprised at how tasty those animals are,” Gomez said. “It’s nice to know that if I ever find myself lost in the jungle I can at least count on having a good meal.”

A Malaysian Army officer explains to U.S. Marines how to build a wild game trap using vines and wood in a jungle survival course during Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2015 in Tanduo, Malaysia on Nov. 11. During the course, Marines learned to build multiple traps and snares. The purpose of the exercise was to strengthen military cooperation in the planning and execution of amphibious operations between Malaysian armed forces and U.S. Marines. The 15th MEU is currently deployed in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to promote regional stability and security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. The Marines are with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

The exercise also allotted time for cultural exchange between the two militaries, which included friendly matches of volleyball, American football, and a version of baseball that used a wooden bat fashioned from a log and soccer ball. “For me, that was the most rewarding part,” Ta said. “I’ve worked with foreign militaries before, but never with the Malaysians. It was great to take the afternoon off and just learn from each other and just hang out.” Marines and Malaysian soldiers traded personal gear, such as rank and shirts, to remember each other by. The cultural exchange ended with the two services coming together to break bread and enjoy a barbecued meal. On the final day of the training, Malaysian soldiers

with Marines showcased what they had learned in a final amphibious beach assault, which was overseen by Col. Vance L. Cryer, commanding officer of the 15th MEU, and senior officers with the Malaysian armed forces. Standing on a nearby hill, they observed what can only be described as controlled chaos. A simulated battle space filled with gun fire, multicolored smoke providing concealment for troops closing in on the opposition, pyrotechnic explosions signifying mortar impacts, and the shouting of orders. After several minutes of intense training, laughter replaced the sounds of the guns firing, and when the smoke cleared, all that could be seen was Malaysian soldiers high-fiving each other

and fist bumping Marines. They had successfully taken the beach. “If we are going to operate together here in the Western Pacific, then we are going to have to integrate and build on these foundations of training,” said Cryer during a speech at the closing ceremony. “These core skills of discipline, communication, movement to contact, and esprit de corps are what will make the difference in the fight.” Before loading onto AAVs and departing, last-minute photos and embraces where exchanged between Marines and Malaysian soldiers. Although the training lasted only four days, the lessons learned and relationships made are sure to last.

3/6 fires mortars rain or shine

Story and photos by: Cpl. Michelle Reif II Marine Expeditionary Force

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. — “If it ain’t rainin’, we ain’t trainin’!” a Marine laughed as the sky opened up and the rain began to pour. All around him the Marines were soaked to the bone yet their spirits remained high. They had a mission to accomplish and it would take more than a little inclement weather to stop them from firing the 60mm mortar. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, conducted a 60mm mortar shoot at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 19, in order to retain and refine their skills with the weapons system. “Today we are shooting the 60mm mortar,” said Sgt. Kevin Doss, a section leader with the unit. “We are

shooting direct alignment. This is when you have your squad leaders offset from your gun line because the gun can’t see the target. The squad leader gets up where he can see it and shoots an azimuth to the target and gives that to the gun line, and the gun line gets the gun up and starts firing.” Squad leaders armed with compasses and binoculars took measurements and calculations in order to determine the direction of fire. They then relayed the elevation and direction to the Marines firing the mortar system. “For direct alignment, you put your indirect fire assets behind some sort of cover,” said Staff Sgt. Johnathan Ellis, a section leader with the unit. “They do not see the targets. The squad leader is going to push off to the left or right flanks, relatively

close enough for communications to give the fire command or fire mission to his squad or to his mortar systems.” Both teams worked quickly yet calmly to ensure the rounds were fired rapidly to simulate a combat environment. “What we typically do with this type of training in a deployment situation is employ 60mm mortars in order to suppress a target of interest or the enemy to allow a maneuvering commander to employ direct fire assets,” said Ellis. Overall, the Marines felt the training was a great success and were proud of the way they proved they could handle any mission under A Marine drops a round into a 60mm mortar tube during live-fire training at Marine Corps any conditions. Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 19. Despite heavy rainfall and wind, the Marines completed the mortar shoot in order to retain and refine their skills with the weapons system and prove they could complete a fire mission under any conditions. The Marine is with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment.

The Jet Stream

Friday, November 27, 2015

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