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Jet Stream The
Friday, November 8, 2013 Vol. 48, No. 44 Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C.
“The noise you hear is the sound of freedom.”
Entertainment News Briefs Weather In The Community Around The Corps More of The Story
2 3 3 5 10 12
MAG-31 haunted house Page 4
Air Station CDC trick or treats Page 5
MALS-31 Halloween bash Page 14
See insert for more Marine Corps Birthday Information
Silver Eagles soar beyond 70 years
Freedom is never free
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8, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. Established on July 1, 1943 in Marine Fighter Attack Squad- Santa Barbara, Calif., the Silver Earon 115, also known as the Silver gles have distinguished themselves Eagles, will reflect on their storied time and time again in the history tradition and history as they celeSEE REUNION, PAGE 12 brate 70 years of excellence on Nov. Comm/Media Relations Chief
Air Station chefs take home trophy &SO 7LPRWK\ 1RUULV Staff Writer
Two teams of Marines won first and third place at the Chef Team of the Quarter competition at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, Nov. 25. The teams are selected by nomination of their peers to compete against two other teams from Parris Island to compete for the Chef Team of the Quarter title and trophy and to have a chance at competing in the Chef Team of the Year competition. “It’s something to do outside of our everyday mess hall work,” said Lance Cpl. Kelly Adams, a Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron food service specialist from Clearwater, Fla. Adams and her teammate, Lance Cpl. Ferman Sanchez-Vega, an H&HS SEE
COMPETITION, PAGE 12
Veteran’s Day Message Page 14
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The Jet Stream
Games and Entertainment
Friday, November 8, 2013
MCAS Beaufort Movie Schedule
Saturday 2 p.m. PG (1:32)
MESS HALL MENU Monday - Friday Breakfast: 6 - 7:30 a.m. Lunch: 11 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Dinner: 4 - 6 p.m.
Saturday 4:30 p.m. PG-13 (1:32)
Saturday 7 p.m. R (1:30)
MCRD Parris Island Movie Schedule
Saturday, Sunday and holidays Brunch: 8:30 - 11 a.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 Dinner Lunch Java mollasses pork Beef, barley and loin and potatoes onion soup
Sunday 2 p.m. PG (1:35)
Sunday Lunch Dinner Baked citrus herb Creamy cajun crusted fish and rice shrimp penne
Sunday 4:30 p.m. R (2:03)
Sunday 7 p.m. R (2:33)
Sudoku
Monday - Friday Breakfast Hot farina, hot hominy grits and oven-fried bacon Monday Dinner Lunch French fried shrimp Beef short ribs and and tater tots zucchini Tuesday Dinner Lunch Bayou jerk pork loin Loaded baked potato and rice chowder and rice Wednesday Dinner Lunch Baked ziti with Salmon with tomato italian sausage cucumber relish Thursday Dinner Lunch Spicy shrimp with Santa fe glazed cheesy grits chicken and corn Friday Dinner Lunch Herb roast pork loin Chicken and with pan gravy dumplings and rice
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 Lutheran • 8:30 a.m. - Sunday Holy Communion Service in the Small Base Chapel
Answer key will be available on facebook.com/MCASBeaufort, Nov. 13.
Crossword
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 Other Programs • Monday, Wednesday, Friday Alcoholics Anonymous - 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Mission Assurance
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 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.
DOWN 1. Bomb dropped on Hiroshima 2. Symbol of the Marine Corps 3. Archibald Henderson served how many years as commandant 4. First Marine Corps recruiter
ACROSS 5. Bomb dropped on Nagasaki 6. Most decorated Marine 7. First female warrant officer 8. First Marine Corps aviator 9. Given the Mameluke Sword 10. Marine Corps was established here
Answer key will be available on facebook.com/MCASBeaufort, Nov. 13.
Command Information
The Jet Stream
Tri-Command Weather 7 Day Forecast
Friday, November 8, 2013
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High Shooter Capt. D.J. Fawcett VMFA(AW)-224
387
Forecast according to weather.com
Happenings Marine Corps Community Services is slated to hold The Four Seasons of Marriage Nov. 21-22, at the Air Station Marine Corps Family Team Building Office from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. For more information call 228-7334.
Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron is scheduled to hold a Holiday Basketball Tournament Nov.23, at the Air Station Fitness Center. The Registration deadline is Nov. 8. For more information call 228-7386.
A Red Cross Blood Drive is scheduled to take place Nov. 13, at the Air Station Chapel from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. For more information call 228-7775.
Marine Corps Community Services is slated to hold a Bench Press Competition Nov. 14, at the Air Station Fitness Center from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. For more information call 2287192.
The Great American Smokeout is scheduled to take place Nov. 21, at the Marine Corps Exchange aboard Parris Island from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. For more information call 228-7616.
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Brain Teaser Jim and Wanda both have some apples. If Jim gives Wanda an apple, they will both have the same number of apples. However, if Wanda gives Jim an apple, Jim will have twice as many as Wanda. How many apples do Jim and Wanda each have? Answer for this week’s brain teaser will be available on facebook.com/MCASBeaufort, Nov. 13.
Effective June 1, MCAS Beaufort will be in Tropical Cyclone Condition V for Hurricane season until Nov. 30. There are currently no threats. This year will be an extremely active season. Colorado State University is predicting 18 named storms and National Weather Service is predicting 18-20 named storms. The
Jet Stream &RQWDFW XV PFDVEHDXIRUW#JPDLO FRP %)57B-3$2#XVPF PLO &RPPDQGLQJ 2IÂżFHU 0&$6 Beaufort Col. Brian Murtha
3XEOLF $IIDLUV 2IÂżFHU Capt. Jordan Cochran
3XEOLF $IIDLUV &KLHI Gunnery Sgt. Stephen Traynham
Press Chief Sgt. Terika S. King
Comm/Media Relations Chief Sgt. Marcy Sanchez
Editor Cpl. John Wilkes
NAVY-MARINE CORPS RELIEF SOCIETY Arlington, VA – The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society is providing assistance to active duty and retired Marines and Sailors who are experiencing financial difficulties associated with the government shutdown. Every day of the week, around the globe, the Society provides interestfree loans and grants for basic living expenses, emergency travel expenses, and other family emergencies for military members and their families facing financial crisis or need. As a non-government, but Federally-sanctioned organization, our support to Navy and Marine Corps families is unaffected by the government shutdown. As a result of the government shutdown, the Society is working closely with the Navy and Marine Corps Casualty Assistance Offices to advance necessary financial assistance for next of kin to travel to the bedside of seriously ill or injured Marines and Sailors, or those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
"No Marine Corps or Navy family with legitimate financial needs should suffer hardship as a result of this temporary government closure," stated MajGen Jensen, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Society. "Every member of the NMCRS Team is leaning forward to assist those in need!" For more information on the Society's programs and services, please visit www.nmcrs.org or contact your nearest NMCRS office at www. nmcrs.org/location. Since 1904, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society has provided financial assistance and education to active duty and retired members of the United States Navy and Marine Corps, their eligible family members and survivors – when in need. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the Society is a non-profit, charitable organization that is staffed by nearly 3,700 volunteers, and a small cadre of employees, in offices around the world – ashore and aboard ships.
Comm/Media Relations Cpl. Rubin J. Tan Cpl. R.J. Driver
Staff Writers Cpl. Sarah Cherry Cpl. Timothy Norris Cpl. Brady Wood Lance Cpl. Brendan Roethel
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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.
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In Other News
Friday, November 8, 2013
MAG-31 nights of fright &SO %UDG\ :RRG Staff Writer
Lance Cpl. Andrew Bishop, the individual augment coordinator for MAG-31, dressed up as a werewolf to scare those that walked through the Marine Aircraft Group 31 haunted houses, Oct. 29-30. Many Marines were in costumes and face paint in order to put on the best show for attendees.
Col. Bill Lieblein, the commanding officer of Marine Aircraft Group 31, congratulates the Marines on a job well done on the haunted house that took place Oct. 29-30.The haunted house featured multiple tents with different themes and were built by the different section of MAG-31.
Marine Aircraft Group 31 held a haunted house aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Oct. 29-30. For this event, each section made their own Halloween themed tent and suited up for two nights of scaring those that dared to enter. “This event allowed the Marines of each section to come together and pool their resources to make their own haunted house,” said Col. Bill Lieblein, the commanding officer of MAG-31. “Each section did an amazing job with their haunted house and scaring those that came to experience it.” To put their haunted houses together, the Winged Warriors used whatever they had at their disposal such as fog machines, chairs, pumpkins, strobe lights, human dummies, storage chests, tables, and anything else they could get their hands on. “Making these haunted houses just goes to show how tight these Marines are,” said Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Monssen, the MAG-31 sergeant
major. “The effort they put forth was amazing.” Throughout both nights the haunted houses were up there were attendees who went through only a couple tents, and others who took the whole challenge. “I anticipated scary and touchy, but what I was not expecting was getting those feelings 10-fold,” said Christina Crosalago, a guest of Lt. Col. Jeff Ertwine, the MAG31 executive officer. “On a scale of one to 10, I would definitely give this event a full 10, it was well worth the experience.” This event mainly served as a camaraderie builder among the Marines, however, donations were accepted. “The donations serve as a way for us to offset the ball cost,” said Lieblein. “Even though we were using this as a sort of fundraiser, it was more of a camaraderie builder for the Marines and fun for the attendees.” Due to the success of this year’s event, MAG-31 has decided to build haunted houses again next year.
A zombie’s body lays on the ground in one of the four haunted houses that were being made for the Marine Aircraft Group 31 haunted house which took place at the MAG-31 headquarters, Oct. 29-30.The setup took a total of two days and due to success, MAG-31 has decided to build haunted houses again next year.
SMP holds costume competition &SO %UDG\ :RRG Staff Writer
The Single Marine and Sailor Program hosted a Halloween costume party and contest for all active duty service members at Afterburners, Oct. 31. Free refreshments were available during the celebration, and service members danced and played pool and video games in their Halloween costumes. “A lot of people usually come to Afterburners for the costume party,” said Benji Pangelinan, the assistant SMP coordinator for Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. “Not everyone who wears a costume participates, some just dress up and watch the competition.” First, second and third place received prizes for their efforts. “The prizes are gift cards for the exchange ranging from $50 - $100,” said Pangelinan. “When we judge we look for the most creative costumes.” At the party, attendees were dressed as multiple characteristics such as: Deadpool, a zombie terrorist, camouflaged ninja, Green Lantern and a swamp monster. The costume party is held every year at Afterburners and at the Brig n’ Brew aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. Party-goers got into character for the contest in order to increase their chance of winning. “I came out to the event because it was something different,’ said Cpl. Genaro Gonzalez, a food service specialist for the Mess Hall aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, who dressed up as the comic book character Deadpool, who is a mercenary and anti-hero appearing in comic books published by Marvel Comics. “It’s not every day that you can dress up as a zombie, monster or even Deadpool, and it be accepted.” Like other SMP events, the contest was meant to get Marines involved in an activity in a friendly environment in which the Marines could compete against each other. “That’s why this event is great, you get to be creative and dress up all while having a great time with fellow Marines,” Gonzalez said.
The Single Marine and Sailor Program held a Halloween costume party and contest at Afterburners aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Oct. 31. During the event, service members danced, played pool and video games in their costumes.
Photos by Lance Cpl. Brendan Roethel
Service members sing karaoke during the Single Marine and Sailor Program’s Halloween costume party and contest at Afterburners aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Oct. 31. The costume party is held every year on the Air Station and at the Brig n’ Brew aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island.
Marines and sailors came out to the Single Marine and Sailor Program’s Halloween costume party and contest at Afterburners aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Oct. 31. The event intends to get Marines involved in an activity which allows them to compete against each other.
In The Community
The Jet Stream
Friday, November 8, 2013
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Trick or Treat
Marines handed out candy to trick or treaters from the Child Development Center aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Oct. 31.
Children from the Child Development Center aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort visited several buildings Oct. 31, to trick or treat and show off their creative costumes.
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Classifieds
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Around The Corps
CORPS BITS
/6 &R %08 RIĂ€RDG 0(8 CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- They waited in frigid weather with gusts of wind and sea spray whipping at their faces as they stood on the beach in the earlymorning light. Marines with Landing Support Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 27, 2nd Marine Logistics Group and sailors with Beach Master Unit Two, based out of Naval Amphibious Base, Little Creek, Va., helped the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit offload personnel and equipment at Onslow Beach Nov. 4. The 26th MEU returned from a six-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea. The sailors with BMU2 used Landing Craft Air Cushions, or LCACs, to offload Marines and vehicles from ships that were anchored off shore and bring them to the shore. Once ashore, LS Co. Marines guided the vehicles off of the LCACs to designated areas. “Things have gone smoothly, working with BMU2,â€? said Pfc. Robinzon W. Loor, a landing support specialist with LS Co. “They know what to do on their end and we know what our role is.â€? LCACs allow service members and equipment to travel from large Navy vessels to shore in an expedient manner while staying dry. Landing Craft Utilities, which were used the previous day, are still able to carry personnel and vehicles from ship to shore, but they cannot go completely onto the shore, therefore exposing service members and equipment to sea water and currents. Seaman Antonio Sloan of BMU2 said that LCACs make offloading ships easier, and are fun to ride on.
From left to right, Capt. Sean D. Wills and Gunnery Sgt. John C. O’Neal IV execute a drill during the combat pistol program Oct. 29 at Range 15 on Camp Hansen. Jay is a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense officer with Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Wills is the executive officer with Communication Company, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF, and O’Neal is a satellite maintenance chief with 7th Communication Battalion, III MEF Headquarters Group, III MEF.
Combat pistol program reaches Okinawa /DQFH &SO +HQU\ $WHQWRU 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force
900 5HLQ .LFNV 2II Djibouti Sustainment Training GULF OF ADEN --Sailors and Marines from the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), and the Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 166 (Reinforced) welcomed distinguished visitors from the French Armed Forces aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4), Oct. 22. Col. Christopher Taylor, 13th MEU commander, and Capt. Malcolm Potts, commander of Amphibious Squadron 1 and Boxer ARG, welcomed Col. Julien SabĂŠnĂŠ, French Air Force commander of Djibouti Air Base 188, and a cadre of French Mirage F1 pilots. The visit allowed for an exchange of tactics, capabilities, and procedures as more than 700 Marines with the13th MEU gear up for a mid-deployment sustainment training event in Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti. Lemonnier is an expeditionary base that provides vital support for counterterrorism and counter piracy missions, as well as interagency operations that take place in concert with diplomatic activity. According to SabĂŠnĂŠ, Camp Lemonnier also provides great air space. “We look forward to conducting modern theater operations side-by-side with our counterparts,â€? SabĂŠnĂŠ said. Lt. Col. Kevin Duffy, commanding officer of VMM-166 (Rein), said the highlight of training for the aviation combat element will be the integration of fixed wing AV-8B Harriers with French Mirage F1 strike aircraft to demonstrate the vital structure of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force in a forward deployed environment. “I believe we will be able to learn a lot from each other,â€? Duffy said. “This is their backyard, so how they operate over here will help build our proficiency.â€? Djibouti sustainment training will also allow VMM-166 (Rein) to showcase its new long-range ship-to-shore capability as the first West Coast MEU to deploy with the MV-22 Osprey aircraft. The 13th MEU is deployed with the Boxer ARG as a theater reserve and crisis response force throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Installations Pacific executed newly instituted combat pistol program qualifications with the M9A1 9 mm pistol Oct. 29 at Range 15 on Camp Hansen. The new pistol qualification, which was announced March 28 in Marine Administrative Message 168/13, incorporates a faster paced and more realistic course of fire, forcing Marines to react to their targets as if they were in combat. Improvements to Marine pistol training and qualification have been under development since 2008. With assistance and approval from the operating forces, Weapons Training Battalion, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., developed, tested and validated the improved training program, resulting in Marines effectively employing the pistol, according to MARADMIN 168/13. “What has changed are the starting position and the drills compared to the older pistol qualification,� said Cpl. Alonso Chavarria, a pistol range block noncom-
missioned officer with Range Control, G-3/5, training and operations, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, MCIPAC. “Marines used to fire from the alert carry, shoot one drill, and stay at the alert carry unless the drill was over.� With the pistol not slated as a primary weapon, it is reasonable to assume that it would be drawn and fired from the holster when needed, according to Sgt. Samuel R. Holthouser, a range safety officer with Range Control. Now, Marines begin every drill during the CPP with the pistol holstered and transition to the alert hold, in which the barrel is pointed at the ground and down range before firing. “This simulates a real-life scenario where a Marine might rely on his pistol, taking it out of the holster, searching and assessing to locate the enemy,� said Chavarria. “For example, Marines who normally guard ammunition, valuable assets or work with the Provost Marshal’s Office could use this training to better themselves in speed, reaction and retaining a combat mindset.� The program uses 20-inch wide by 40-inch tall silhouettes of a human figure as
targets with more details than previous silhouettes to include facial features. While the badges remain the same from the previous pistol qualification’s course, the scoring system has changed, including a larger 10-point scoring ring. The new scoring system requires the shooter to earn at least 264 points to qualify as a marksman, 324 points to qualify as a sharpshooter and 364 points to qualify as an expert, according to Staff Sgt. Robert Valdez, a combat marksmanship coach and trainer with Range Control. This is based on the higher value placed on more accurate shooting. The Marines executed controlled pairs, hammer pairs, and failure-to-stop drills during the training from distances of 7, 15 and 25 yards inside of time limits ranging from 5-12 seconds. During controlled pairs, shooters aim slowly before the first and second shots. While in comparison, during a hammer pair a Marine rapidly fires two consecutive shots. For a failure-to-stop drill, Marines execute a hammer pair combined with a well-aimed shot to the head. In another drill, the Marines simulate running out
of ammunition and having to reload their weapon and continue firing within a nine-second window. “No Marine is going to stand comfortably and take their time while they are in combat,� said Holthouser. Computers control the targets, turning the silhouettes toward or away from the shooters to simulate an enemy combatant appearing and disappearing behind cover. “The targets and drills help simulate enemy contact and, unlike the previous pistol qualification, this forces me to react as fast as possible while still hitting accurately,� said Lance Cpl. Colin A. Sepulvedabenson, a heavy-equipment operator with Landing Support Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III MEF. “I can see this new system being useful (when) I am authorized to engage the enemy, I’ll quickly pull out the pistol and use a drill like the failure to stop if necessary. “This qualification is good practice for the real thing and learning from it can help me protect important assets supporting the overall mission,� added Sepulvedabenson.
Corps Shot Sgt. Marco Mancha
LIMBE, CAMEROON - Roleplaying as the opposition force, Lance Cpl. Nickolas Garrett of Monroe, Ga., fires blank rounds at enemy forces during a simulated amphibious beach landing October 25, 2013.
The Jet Stream
Around The Corps
Fightertown deployed:
New U.S. Marine unit trains with French Foreign Legion CAMP DES GARRIGUES, France -- U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response, the Marine Corps’ newest unit, spent Oct. 28 to Nov. 1 near Camp des Garrigues, France, training with Legionnaires from France’s 2nd Foreign Infantry Regiment. The week-long bilateral event was the first between SP-MAGTF Crisis Response and the French military and served to establish professional, working relationships between the allied nations. The event culminated Thursday, Oct. 31, as Marines and Legionnaires took to the skies in a MV-22B Osprey, landing just outside a fenced-in compound that served as the day’s objective. The infantrymen assaulted through the compound, communicating and working together as they maneuvered around and through dozens of metal warehouses, concrete urban structures and danger areas, such as road intersections and open fields. All this while fighting a simulated opposing force of fellow Marines and Legionnaires hidden throughout the compound and
engaging with blank ammunition to re-create the sounds and smells of the battlefield. The training scenario ended after the force worked its way through a final building, using room-clearing tactics and techniques to eliminate the enemy forces inside. Although the Marines and Legionnaires had not trained together before the week began, the assault was a success, mainly due to the striking similarities between the two military organizations. Marine Capt. Jackson Smith, the executive officer of Alpha Company, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, SP-MAGTF Crisis Response, was asked whether he would be comfortable in a future combat situation with a foreign force. His answer came quickly: “If it was with these guys — I’d go anywhere with these guys,” he said. Smith’s statement captured the sentiment of most of the infantry Marines involved in the exercise. But SP-MAGTF Crisis Response didn’t only bring its infantry to France. They also brought an MV-22B Osprey — the first to ever operate tactically in an exercise on French soil. “It was a great week — the U.S. has a long and valued history with France
Legionnaires from the 2nd Foreign Infantry Regiment of France’s 6th Light Armored Brigade set up landing zone security for an MV-22B Osprey with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response Oct. 30, 2013, at Camp des Garrigues, France.
and we hope we can get together with them for follow on training,” said Capt. Kyle Stuart, an MV-22B Osprey pilot with Marine Medium Tilitrotor Squadron 162, SP-MAGTF Crisis Response. Stuart said it was a neat experience to be the first pilot to fly an Osprey to France as part of an exercise, but the honor belongs to his squadron, VMM162, and the Marines and sailors of SPMAGTF Crisis Response. The MV-22B Osprey adds a significant capability to the operations of SPMAGTF Crisis Response not enjoyed by other military organizations throughout the world. The Ospreys are organic to the unit, which means they directly support all Crisis Response forces — an essential characteristic for a unit whose mission is to provide a quick-deploying force to support potential crises as directed over large areas in U.S. Africa Command. Because of that mission, the Marines in France were only a contingent from SP-MAGTF Crisis Response, as most of the unit remains on constant alert at Moron Air Base, Spain, where the unit is temporarily based. “Our unit’s alert status can make it a challenge to get away and do these types of events,” said Capt. T. D. McAbee, the officer-in-charge of the exercise for the Marines. “But bilateral exercises are integral for maintaining our ability to focus on our mission and sharpen our skills while fostering improved military relations with our sister nation’s militaries.” The Legionnaires hosted a 7K obstacle course as the final event of the week, but instead of competing against each other — as would seem natural for two militaries with histories as storied as these — the two units joined forces and finished together. Afterward, there was a gift exchange followed by food and drinks, capping a successful week of training. Both Marines and Legionnaires said they gained many things, each remarking how their standards of discipline and camaraderie along with their warfighting traditions provide a strong link between the two. Both hope for an opportunity to train again soon. SP-MAGTF Crisis Response returned to Spain after the exercise, and has plans for more bilateral training with their partners in the Spanish military in the coming weeks.
Scout sniper awarded Navy Cross 6JW %ULDQ 0DULRQ 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -Sergeant Joshua L. Moore received the Navy Cross from the Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Ray Mabus, during an awards ceremony Nov. 1, 2013 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. Moore, 25, from Franklinville, N.C., received the naval service’s highest award for his extraordinary heroism while serving as a scout with scout sniper platoon, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, March 14, 2011. The Navy Cross is second only to the Medal of Honor, the military’s highest award. “It’s an honor to receive an award like the Navy Cross,” said Moore. “But to be honest, I was just doing my job.” Four other Marines were awarded medals at the ceremony, to include a Bronze Star Medal with combat distinguishing device, and Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals with combat distinguishing devices, for their valor and selfless acts at the same ceremony. Sergeant Justin L. Tygart of Orlando, Fla., received the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” device, and Sgt. Ritchie Elias of Anaheim, Calif., and Cpl. Gaven Eier of Charleston, S.C., were awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Com-
mendation Medal with Combat “V” device. Sergeant Matthew D. Adams of Hampstead, N.C., was also awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat “V” device, but was unable to attend the ceremony. While in a hide-site northeast of Marjah, all of the shooter-observer teams with Moore’s section were compromised and had to return to a nearby compound they previously occupied. The section came under attack again after only a few hours in the compound. “Two grenades were thrown
CORPS BITS
detachment is deployed to Afghanistan and a is augmenting MALS-40 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
are currently deployed to the Mediterranean to promote security in the region.
Marine Forces Europe and Africa
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VMFA-312 Checkerboards
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over the north wall, and both of them hit me in the back and rolled away,” said Moore. “Fortunately they landed next to each other, and I picked the first one up and threw it out.” Moore noticed the second grenade was corroded and knew it wouldn’t explode, so he dropped after hearing the explosion of the first grenade. Under heavy machine gun fire, taking several casualties and with no positive identification of the enemy forces to the north, Moore left the compound to aid the wounded and provide security. “I looked up, and they were
carrying Sgt. Tygart,” explained Moore. “At this point we were taking fire, so I had to crawl out of the building and loop round to the north to provide security while they were treating the guys inside the compound.” With the arrival of the quick reaction force and another sniper section, the Marines successfully suppressed the enemy forces, evacuated the wounded and returned to the patrol base. “Honestly, I was scared out of my mind, but I knew we had to do everything possible to get everybody home,” Moore explained.
Sergeant Joshua L. Moore is presented the Navy Cross from the Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Ray Mabus, during an awards ceremony aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 1, 2013. Moore, 25, from Franklinville, N.C., received the military’s second highest award for his extraordinary heroism while serving as a scout with scout sniper platoon, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, 2nd Marine Division Forward, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force Forward, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, March 14, 2011.
House of horrors: Marines, VDLORUV HQGXUH JDV FKDPEHU CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- While children across the United States put on their Halloween costumes and masks, service members donned a different kind of mask here Oct. 31. Instead of shouting “trick or treat,” like kids would later that night, the Marines and sailors of 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group yelled: “Gas! Gas! Gas!” Approximately 120 service members received classes on the proper use of M50 Joint Service General Purpose Masks and Mission Oriented Protective Posture clothing during a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear, or CBRN, attack before testing their confidence inside a gas chamber. The individual survival measures classes and mask confidence exercise are annual requirements for Marines and sailors to maintain mission readiness. “The gas chamber is really important,” said Lance Cpl. Thomas W. Edgemon, a CBRN defense specialist with Combat Logistics Regiment 27, 2nd MLG. “A lot of people think that it’s an opportunity to mess with Marines, but it’s really for them to become comfortable and confident in their gear.” Inside the gas chamber, Marines and sailors perform several tests to make sure their protective masks have tight seals and won’t leak 2-chlorobenzalmalonoitrile, or CS gas, onto their faces. Although referred to as a gas, CS – commonly referred to as tear gas – actually consists of tiny crystals, which irritate anything they come in contact with, whether it be skin, eyes or lungs. The burning sensation allows the service members to build confidence that their equipment works and that they know how to use it properly. “Inside the gas chamber, it’s exciting and an experience you want to be done with,” said Pvt. Sean D. Gagnon, an automotive organizational mechanic with 2nd Supply Bn. “When I broke the seal, I started coughing and my nose started running, but it wasn’t as bad as I was expecting.”
Medal of Honor Tribute presented to Dakota Meyer COLUMBIA, KY. -- Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer, a native of Columbia, Ky., was presented a Medal of Honor Tribute at Lindsey Wilson College Oct. 28. Richard Powers, creator of the tribute and retired sergeant first class, along with Gunnery Sgt. Allen Rosenblatt, staff noncommissioned officer in charge of Recruiting Sub-station Elizabethtown, and Staff Sgt. John Allison, an RSS Elizabethtown canvasing recruiter, presented the tribute to Meyer in his hometown. The tribute is designed as an instructional and an inspirational piece that will remain on display in the school. It has a wooden base with a glass cover housing a display bust with the ribbon from a Medal of Honor. The medal portion of the award is etched into the glass cover and appears to float over the ribbon when viewed from the front. It has the recipient’s citation etched on one side of the glass and an image of him on the other side. “This is a great way to showcase the actions of one of our nation’s heroes and to teach students about the military,” said Rosenblatt. “Military history isn’t always something that a lot of students are taught, so it’s always good to see things like these tributes out in the community.” Powers has created several other tributes for Medal of Honor recipients including his first one for Jacklyn Harold Lucas, a Medal of Honor recipient for his actions on Iwo Jima in 1945. Powers began making the tributes several years ago when he received the ribbon portion of Lucas’ Medal of Honor. Wanting to display it properly, he created the first of many tributes; all created with permission and approval from living Medal of Honor recipients to be displayed in their honor. The tributes go on assignment to various locations where they can be used as a teaching aid and an inspiration to young people to learn about the medal and the history surrounding it, said Powers. The tribute for Lucas is currently located at the Central Hardin High School Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps classroom in Elizabethtown, Ky. It has previously been displayed at the American Legion in Elizabethtown, Ky., North Hardin High School in Radcliff, and at Fort Knox High School.
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REUNION continued from page 1
books. They started off with a fleet of F4U-1 Corsairs and were the first Marine Corps squadron to receive a full complement of the F9F-2 Panther Jet Fighters in 1949. The squadron was also the first Marine Corps squadron to serve aboard a carrier, the USS Roosevelt, in 1950. The list of operations VMFA-115 has participated in spans over a half-century of peacetime, conflicts and humanitarian efforts. Operations include World War II, The Korean War, The Vietnam War, Operation IRAQI FREEDOM and many other missions in between. Some of the interesting missions between conflicts included intercepting and escorting various Soviet Union aircraft during The Cold War. The history of the squadron is illuminated in the 1988 book “A history of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115,” written by retired Capt. John C. Chapin. In the book Chapin describes the squadron’s history as evolving from “a group of wartime beginners in SNJ-4 planes to today’s front-line professionals in their F/A-18 Hornets.” Notable VMFA-115 Marines include Maj. Joseph Foss, one of the first Marine Corps aviators to receive the Medal of Honor for shooting down 26 Japanese aircraft during a deployment over the Pacific in 1943. In reference to Foss, the squadron is also nicknamed “Joe’s Jokers.” The anniversary will take place in conjunction with an annual reunion of former Marines and Sailors of VMFA-115. The VMF/VMFA-115 Reunion Association attempts to hold a reunion annually and have not had one in Beaufort in 10 years. The alumni will consist of both enlisted and commissioned Marines and Sailors spanning in service from 1943, when the squadron was first commissioned, to Marines from the 90s. The squadron and guests are scheduled to enjoy an open house at the Silver Eagles’ hangar, where current squadron members will showcase and demonstrate current F/A-18 capabilities, followed by a social at the Officers’ Club aboard MCAS Beaufort on Nov. 8. On Nov. 9, events will consist of a golf outing and tour at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, followed by the Marine Corps Birthday Ball celebration on Nov. 10, in Hilton Head Island, S.C. As Chapin concludes in his book, VMFA-115 has set a standard for other Fighter-Attack squadrons of the Marine Corps. Today’s VMFA-115 Marines may look back on the squadron’s proud history of accomplishment and look forward to a promising future in the annals of Marine aviation.
Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115, also known as the Silver Eagles, will reflect on their storied tradition and history as they celebrate 70 years of excellence aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Nov. 8. Established on July 1, 1943 in Santa Barbara, Calif., the Silver Eagles have distinguished themselves time and time again in the history books.
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The Marines who won first and third place at the Chef Team of the Quarter competition display their medals they won in front of the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Dining Facility, Oct. 31. The teams competed against two other chef teams aboard Parris Island to take home the Chef Team of the Quarter trophy which they display inside the dining facility as a source of pride, and for an opportunity to compete in the annual Chef Team of the Year competition.
food service specialist won first place in the competition, bringing back the Chef Team of the Quarter trophy to the Air Station from Parris Island. “It’s a source of pride and it’s going to stay here,” she said. The teams had four hours to prepare their pre-decided meals for a board of judges, but unexpected circumstances put pressure on the contestants. “We fell short on some of the ingredients, but improvising is the key,” said Pfc. Devon Jackson, an H&HS food service specialist from Houston, Texas. Devon and his teammate, Cpl. Elias Gonzalez an H&HS food service specialist from Los Angeles, Calif., served a cream of broccoli soup and twice baked sweet potato and roasted garlic asparagus with a rib-eye steak topped with a tarragon Dijon mustard sauce and mousse pudding, earning third place in the competition. Adams and Sanchez-Vega served a cream of mushroom soup, with a twicebaked potato, roasted garlic and parmesan vegetables with a Swiss steak and cream cheese tartlets. Jackson added that while the last-minute changes were difficult, the hardest part was waiting for the judges verdict. “It was nerve wrecking, but we could tell the more they ate, the more they liked it.” Adams and Sanchez-Vega took first place by two points on a more than 300 point scale, making it a close call for the judges. Both teams said they believed it was the tartlets that pushed Adams and Sanchez-Vega to victory. “I’m a baker by trade,” Adams said. “Before the Marine Corps I was a cake decorator. I’ve done it my whole life, so when it comes to pastries it’s my thing.” Adams and Sanchez-Vega will go on to compete in the Chef Team of the Year competition early next year.
The Marines who won first and third place at the Chef Team of the Quarter competition help prepare lunch at the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Dining Facility, Oct. 31. The teams competed against two other chef teams aboard Parris Island to take home the Chef Team of the Quarter trophy which they display inside the dining facility as a source of pride, and for an opportunity to compete in the annual Chef Team of the Year competition.
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Veterans Day Message Since the creation of armistice day in 1919, we have paused on 11 November to remember all members of our armed forces who have risked their lives in defense of our nation. Officially redesignated as Veteran’s Day after World War II, we have used this time to honor our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines for their courage and sacrifice. Veterans Day continues to resonate close to many of us as we reflect on the brave men and women who have given their all in countless battles
on foreign soil. Today, many of our brothers and sisters remain forward deployed in Afghanistan and around the globe. During this holiday, take time to remember our distinguished veterans, honor their service and sacrifices, and celebrate the freedoms our nation provides.
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MALS-31 Barracks Bash /DQFH &SO %UHQGDQ 5RHWKHO Staff Writer
Marines with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31 participated in a Halloween squadron run and barracks bash at the MALS-31 Barracks aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Nov. 1. The event was put into place to welcome Marines home from various deployments and build unit cohesion and morale throughout the squadron. The bash featured picnic-style food, inflatable games, a dunk tank, volleyball, basketball and other activities. “The reason we put on this run and bash is to provide a fun event for our Marines,” said Sgt. Bryan Tull, the Single Marine Program representative for MALS31. “This is a great opportunity for them to get their minds off work and have a good time with their fellow Marines. We also had many Marines return from deployment within the past few months, so we thought this would be a great way to welcome them back to the unit.” Marines with MALS-31 have deployed with various units this year to include Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115, VMFA-122, Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, VMFA-312 and MALS-40. “I recently returned from a deployment to the Middle East with VMFA-115,” said Lance Cpl. Nathan Lyons, an aviation structural mechanic with MALS-31. “I think this is a great event to come back to. It gets everyone together and allows them to catch up after deploying, and gets them back into the swing of things.” Events such as the unit run and barracks bash, help build camaraderie and unit cohesion. This allows units to work together more effectively with each other to accomplish the squadrons mission. “I’m proud of everything my Marines have accomplished,” said Lt. Col. Willie Stansell, the commanding officer for MALS-31. “They have worked hard, putting in the time and effort each day to make our squadron as great as it is. Many have deployed with other squadrons, building upon our name as MALS-31. This is a great way to thank the Marines for their hard work and dedication. They have earned this.”
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