Jet Stream The
Friday, August 04, 2017 Vol. 52, No. 30 Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C.
“The noise you hear is the sound of freedom.”
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Marine visits battleground at which her grandfather fought serving as a Navajo Code Talker
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Combat ready: VMFA-211 prepares mission commanders
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Shaping history: A Marine’s legacy of leadership
Courtesey photo by Lance Cpl. Kayla Rainbolt
Master Sgt. Frank Ginn Jr. stands at the position of attention during the singing of the national anthem at his retirement ceremony held aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, May 6. Ginn served 24 years of honorable and faithful service in the Marine Corps. During his service, Ginn served as a military patrolman, a military working dog handler, a kennel master, a drill instructor and retired at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, serving as the family readiness officer of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron. Story by: Cpl. Ashley Phillips Staff Writer
Courtesey photo
Xxenos, a military working dog, passed away two years ago after spending three years retired and living with Master Sgt. Frank Ginn Jr. Ginn retired earlier this year, after serving 24 years and leaving a lasting legacy of leadership, shaping the next generations of Marines.
A Marine stands before the American and Marine Corps flags, a pillar at the position of attention in a chapel. His close friends and family watch as the Marine’s 24 years of faithful and honorable service come to an end. He appears stoic, but a flood of memories and emotions rush through his mind. “During my retirement ceremony, all I could think about was that I was stepping away from what I’ve known for so many years and into the unknown,” said Master
Sgt. Frank Ginn Jr. “I was thinking about the memories I have, of the Marines I have served with, and the bonds I have created.” Ginn has distinguished himself as a leader at every rank and duty station throughout his career. When reflecting on what has made him successful as a leader and what has inspired his Marines to accomplish their mission, one principle stands in the foreground of his mind. “What has served me well as a leader is impressing upon every Marine I work with, that I genuinely care about getting to know them, their background, and how they work best,” said Ginn, who served as the
Family Readiness Officer of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron before his retirement. “That has come back ten-fold in accomplishing our mission.” Ginn began his career as a Military Police patrolman in 1993. After three years and multiple duty stations, he attended the Military Working Dog Basic Course and graduated to become a dog handler. Being a MWD handler opened the door for Ginn to learn the valuable lessons he now carries with him. “As a MWD handler, the most import-
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Military police assist Parris Island family after fire Story and photos by: Lance Cpl. Terry Haynes III Staff Writer
Military policemen helped a family clean out their home after it was damaged by a fire aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, July 27. The military policemen of the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort’s Provost Marshal’s Office provided assistance by removing destroyed furniture, appliances, and personal possessions from the Yon family’s house aboard Parris Island. “When we found out someone needed help we jumped right up,” said Lance Cpl. Alfonso Quevedo, a military policeman with PMO, MCAS Beaufort. “The base is really close-knit and we always try to be
there for one another, because we’re Marines and that is what we do.” Three weeks ago, the Yon family home sustained fire and smoke damage. When Benson Yon noticed the fire, he quickly evacuated the house with his one-year-old son and called for help. No one was hurt in the blaze. “We responded to the structure fire and the house was clearly uninhabitable,” said Capt. Denver Edick,
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Military policemen carry a piano from a house damaged by fire to a dumpster aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, July 27. Marines and civilians with the Provost Marshal’s Office volunteered their time to help a family in need as part of their mission to protect and serve. The military policeman are with the PMO, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.
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The Jet Stream
Friday, August 04, 2017
Games and Entertainment
Saturday 2:00 p.m. G (1:49)*
Saturday 4:30 p.m. PG (1:30)
Saturday 7:00 p.m. PG-13 (2:13)
Thursday TBA
Friday 7:00 p.m. PG-13 (2:13)
Sunday 2:00 p.m. PG (1:30)
Sunday 4:00 p.m. R (1:28)
Sunday 7:00 p.m. R (1:59)
Mess Hall Menu 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
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 • 9:30 a.m. - Sunday Mass
Doors open 30 minutes before movie starts! | All NDVD are FREE *Last Showing
CROSSWORD PUZZLE CLUES ACROSS 1. Belonging to a thing 4. Woman (French) 7. ‘Incredible’ TV veterinarian 8. Volcanic craters 10. Geological times 12. Ghana’s capital 13. Any small compartment 14. Conductance unit 16. Athens, Georgia, rockers 17. Plant of the arum family 19. Hawaiian dish 20. Pop 21. Imparting of information 25. Take in solid food 26. Dutch banking group (abbr.) 27. Contemptible 29. Peak 30. Play a role 31. Yuck! 32. Diversion 39. __ and groan 41. Helps little firms 42. Large, edible game fish 43. To do so is human 44. Supervises interstate commerce 45. Basics 46. La Cosa Nostra 48. Mens’ neckwear 49. Buddhist shrine 50. Midway between north and northeast 51. Wood 52. Hair product
SUDOKU
GUESS WHO? I am a tennis player born in Michigan on September 26, 1981. I began playing tennis at age 5 alongside my older sister. I have won every major tournament and captured 23 singles titles. CLUES DOWN 1. Induces vomiting 2. Matador 3. A way to travel on skis 4. __ and cheese 5. Indicates long vowel 6. Made a mistake 8. Chinese chairman 9. Indigenous people of the Philippines 11. Slender 14. Extinct, flightless bird 15. Japanese conglomerate
18. Of (French) 19. Rate in each hundred (abbr.) 20. Unit of loudness 22. Most organized 23. 007’s creator Fleming 24. Computing giant 27. American singer Aimee 28. Shock treatment 29. Ottoman military commander 31. Urban Transit Authority 32. Too much noise
33. Type of blood cell 34. Home of football’s Panthers (abbr.) 35. Fortifying ditch 36. Receding 37. Christian creed 38. Tuft of hanging threads 39. Microelectromechanical systems 40. Speak 44. Supervises flying 47. Inches per minute (abbr.)
EDUCATION WORD SEARCH
HOROSCOPES ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, help out around the house or the office this week and the effort will benefit both you and the people with whom you interact. Reinforce close relationships. TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, when you set your mind to something, the results are often spectacular. Stick with what you have been doing of late and keep enjoying the great results. GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Change may be all around you this week, Gemini. You may not be overly excited about all the things that are unfolding, but realize this change of pace is essential to your career. CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, if you are willing to put in extra effort this week, the results will be well worth it. Hunker down and commit to going the extra mile in the days ahead.
Buddhist • 11 a.m. - Saturday Worship Service in the Chapel Fellowship Hall
LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, romance is on your mind, so you have to make sure you get together with that special person in the next few days. Otherwise, the mood may pass. VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, a surprise visit from a friend or family member lifts your spirits in the coming days. Enjoy this chance to catch up and share a few laughs with a loved one.
Other Faith Groups • For Jewish, Mormon and Islamic support, contact the Chaplain’s Office at 228-7775
LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, unless someone helps you corral your focus, your energy is bound to spread all over the place. Find a friend who can keep you on the right track.
See something suspicious Say something.
SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, expect to expend a lot of energy this week if you want the job to get done correctly. You’re not one for slacking, so this shouldn’t be a problem. SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Focus on the bigger picture, Sagittarius. With the end goal in mind, you can better map out the steps that need to be taken to get to the finish line. CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Serve as a sounding board and let a friend vent his or her frustration without interrupting, Capricorn. Your patience and willingness to listen will be noted and appreciated.
Call (843) 228-6710 / 911 - IMMEDIATELY
Hotlines MCAS Beaufort Station Inspector
843-228-7789
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Hotline 24/7
843-321-6009
Force Protection information and concerns
843-228-6924
PMO Dispatch
843-228-6710
Severe Weather and Force Protection
1-800-343-0639
Fraud, Waste and Abuse
If you know of or suspect any fraud, waste or abuse aboard MCAS Beaufort, call 843-812-9537. 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.
ACADEMICS ACCOUNTABILITY ACHIEVEMENT ALTERNATIVE BENCHMARK CHARTER CLASSES CONTINUING CORE
CREDITS CURRICULUM DATA DEGREE DIPLOMA DISTANCE EDUCATION ELEMENTARY ENROLLMENT
GAP GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUCTION LEARNING PERIODS PRESCHOOL PROFICIENT PROGRESS
REMEDIAL SCHEDULING STANDARDIZED STUDENT SUBSTITUTE TESTING TUTORING VOCATIONAL
JULY 28 SOLUTIONS Guess Who?: KENNY ROGERS Answer to this week’s puzzles will be available in next week’s edition of The Jet Stream.
AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Many people need your help, Aquarius. Direct all of your good energy toward assisting others for the time being. This help will eventually be reciprocated. PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, you need to figure out how to turn great ideas into workable projects that will earn you some money. Start drafting that plan.
Command Information
The Jet Stream
228-6335 Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
center has updated it’s request policy. To have your building’s recycling bin emptied email a request to BFRT_MCASBEAUFORT@usmc.mil.
n The photocopying of U.S. Gov-
August 7, 1990: President
n Laurel Bay schools summer reg-
istration for new students is going on now until August 15, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
ernment identification cards is a violation of Title 18, U.S. Code Part 1, Chapter 33, Section 701 and punishable by fine and imprisonment.
n If you have lost something and are
looking for it, please contact the Lost and Found Custodian at 843-
Fightertown Fun Fact
History in flight: The Flying Leathernecks Story by: Staff Sgt. Dengrier Baez Marine Fighter Squadron 122, known as the “Werewolves,” was commissioned March 1, 1942 at Camp Kearny in San Diego, Calif. The “Candystripers,” as the unit was known then was, outfitted with the F4F Wildcat aircraft and saw their first combat tour in October 1942. During this tour, the squadron was part of the Cactus Air Force at Henderson Field and operated out of Espiritu Santo. In April 1943, while under the command of Maj. Pappy Boyington, the squadron transitioned to the F4U Corsair. The unit’s first combat tour ended July 23, 1943, returning them to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., on Aug. 16. For the next year after their return to the States, the squadron was re-organized and re-trained at Marine Corps Air Station El Centro, Calif. On its second tour, the fighter squadron embarked the escort carrier USS Hollandia in July 1944. They provided close air support for Marines during the Battle of Peleliu at distances of over 1,000 yards from their take off point. The squadron’s ability to provide napalm and rockets, both new weapons systems at the time, greatly aided in the destruction of the last Japanese strongholds on the island. The unit remained on the island conducting combat operations until August 1945 for the remainder of the war. Following the surrender of Japan, VMF122 returned home after the surrender of Japan to MCAS Oak Grove, N.C. in Jan. 1946. They were based there for less than two years before transferring to MCAS Beaufort, which was followed by another move to MCAS Cherry Point; N.C.The squadron was reactivated in November 1947 becoming the first Marine squadron to employ jet-propelled aircraft flying the FH Phantom. During this time, the squadron also fielded the first and only Marine aerial demonstration team known as the “Flying Leathernecks”. They toured the country for two years before being disbanded with the transition to the F2H
Banshee. In April 1951, the squadron became the first Marine jet squadron to be both day and night qualified for carrier operations. On 15 May, 1951, the squadron deployed from Naval Air Station Quonset Point aboard the USS Oriskany to the Mediterranean Sea, returning to MCAS Cherry Point in early October 1951. In 1952, they again transitioned to the F9F Panther and after a Mediterranean cruise in 1953, they were assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 24 at MCAS Cherry Point. January 1954 again saw the squadron transitioning aircraft, this time to the FJ Fury. The squadron relocated to Fightertown in September 1957 and in December of that year, they became the first squadron in the Marine Corps to fly the F-8 Crusader. It was at this time that they transitioned from being the “Candystripers” to “Crusaders.” The squadron designator change to VMF(AW)-122 upon receiving all weather capable F-8Es in 1962. That year they also deployed to Key West, Florida to support combat air patrol missions during the Cuban missile crisis. In 1964, VMF(AW)-122 deployed to Naval Air Facility Atsugi for a year and returned to MCAS El Toro, Calif. in January 1965. While there they transitioned to the F-4B Phantom and were redesignated VMFA122, losing its all-weather capability. They deployed to the Republic of Vietnam in August 1967 and operated from the airbase at Danang. They rotated to MCAS Iwakuni in September 1968 and returned to Vietnam during the summer of 1969, this time operating from Chu Lai. Following Vietnam, the Crusaders were assigned to MCAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii in September 1970. They were then ordered to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan to support operations to counter a North Vietnamese offensive against South Vietnam. The squadron returned to Hawaii Dec. 27, 1972. With the decision not to acquire the F-14 Tomcat, VMFA-122 was reactivated at MCAS Beaufort and refitted with the F-4J in September 1975. On September 25, 1985,
VMFA-122 flew its last F-4 sortie, completing 20 years of service as an F-4 “Phantom” squadron. On January 22, 1986, the squadron began a new era with the acceptance of its first F/A-18A Hornet. Since that time, VMFA-122 conducted multiple training deployments to Europe and throughout the United States. The squadron increased their combat capabilities by transitioning to the F/A-18C in October 2001. The squadron participated in the Unit Deployment Program, completing eleven deployments to the Western Pacific. From July 2002 to July 2003, the VMFA-122 completed a year-long UDP due to the “stop move” order implemented by the Marine Corps. This allowed Hornet squadrons from Beaufort to deploy to Kuwait in anticipation of Operation Iraqi Freedom in January 2003. The F-18 squadron departed MCAS Iwakuni to many locations in the Pacific Region, including Marine Corps Air Facility Kaneohe Bay in Hawaii and Clark Air Based in the Philippines. In January 2005, they continued the UDP rotation, deploying to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan. In September 2006 the unit again returned to MCAS Iwakuni with detachments to Clark Air Base in the Philippines, Kadena Air Force Base on Okinawa, and Khorat, Thailand. Prior to another squadron deployment in support of OIF later in 2008, the squadron’s commander reverted the unit to their older WWII nickname, the Werewolves. The squadron began its first combat deployment in more than 30 years when it left the air station on Aug. 29, 2010 for Kandahar, Afghanistan. April, 2012, the commander of VMFA-122 decided the squadron would revert to the “Crusaders” nickname. Shortly after, VMFA-122 reverted the unit nickname back to the “Werewolves” and then “The Flying Leathernecks.” VMFA-122 continue to operate out of Fightertown as a fighter attack squadron supporting the Marine Corps mission by continuous training and support operations.
Fightertown deployed: Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 224 is currently deployed to support combat operations overeas.
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Did you know...
HAPPENINGS n The MCAS Beaufort recycling
Friday, August 04, 2017
MALS-31 Stingers have detachments currently deployed supporting VMFA(AW)-224.
Bush ordered U.S. military aircraft and troops to Saudi Arabia as part of a multinational force to defend that nation against possible Iraqi invasion. One week later the Marine Corps announced the commitment of 45,000 troops to the Persian Gulf area as part of Operation Desert Shield which would become the largest deployment of U.S. forces since the Vietnam War.
Effective June 1, MCAS Beaufort will be in Tropical Cyclone Condition V for 2017 Atlantic Hurricane season until November 30. This year is predicted to be an above normal season due to weak or non-existent El Nino. NOAA is predicting 17-11 named storms, which includes Al. 9-5 will become Hurricanes. 4-2 will become major Hurricanes. Monitor the latest forecasts and briefings from the National Weather Service in order to prepare your family for any extreme weather affecting our area or along your route during vacation travels. Be Prepared! weather.gov
Jet Stream The
Contact us: 228-7225 mcasbeaufort@gmail.com BFRT_JPAO@usmc.mil Commanding Officer MCAS Beaufort Col. Timothy P. Miller
Public Affairs Officer Capt. Clayton Groover
Public Affairs Chief
Staff Sgt. Jayson E. Price
Community Relations/Staff Writer Cpl. Ashley Phillips Lance Cpl. Benjamnin McDonald Lance Cpl. Terry Haynes, III
Advertising Account Executive Natalie Woods, Bluffton Today 843-815-0800 x20
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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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Friday, August 04, 2017
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ant part is building rapport between dog and handler,” said Ginn. “That means you are grooming, washing, feeding, and spending down time with the dog. Before you can train the dog you need to play with the dog and let him know you are taking care of him. Spending the time builds that trust and brotherhood that enables you to know the dog in and out.” While on combat deployments, the former MWD handler and Kennel Master said his K-9 teams were often utilized by special operations forces. Prior to being a part of SOF missions, MWD teams would be tested for accuracy and proficiency. “Time and time again, I would watch my MWD teams call out explosive devices,” said Ginn.“The MWD teams were so proficient; SOF unit leaders couldn’t see the communication between the military working dog and Marine. Then I would watch the SOF unit leader question the team. ‘Why didn’t the dog sit or give any indication
there was an explosive there - yet you were able to identify it?’” Ginn said the handler would then explain that only a well trained eye could see the tell-tale signs given by the dog. The handler knew his dog so well, others who were watching saw no indication of the silent communications passing between the team. “Once that bond takes place, you see the dog and the handler become one,” said Ginn. “That’s when the magic happens. I approach every Marine I work with the same way. There have been times down range when that trust and that bond has been what helped us accomplish the mission and come back safely.” Another time that building trust and rapport played an important role was while Ginn served as a Drill Instructor aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif. In 2003, one recruit he trained stands out in his mind.The recruit went to
boot camp twice and both times, Ginn was his Senior Drill Instructor. “The first time that recruit, now Marine, attended boot camp he had to be sent home due to a medical issue,” said Ginn. “Before he left, I shared a personal story with him that inspired him to come back a year later. Not only that, but as a Marine, years down the road, he said that story I had shared saved his life and that of another.” The Marine, whose name Ginn preferred remain anonymous, was caught in an L-shaped ambush with another Marine during a combat mission. Both sustained injuries from small arms fire and as they sat there, pinned down with few options, they prepared themselves for a grim final outcome. The Marine Ginn trained, recalled the words from Ginn and shared them with his partner. Upon hearing those words, his wounded partner found inspiration and was able to figure out a way to call for a medivac.They were able to
fight until help arrived. “My words were able to inspire those Marines and save their lives,” said Ginn. “I found out about this because the Marine emailed me afterward.That is why creating bonds and knowing Marines on a personal level is so important. You never know how your actions as a leader will shape history.” When asked what it was he had said to that Marine, Ginn sat back with a smile on his face and said, “Now that’s a personal story for that Marine.” Ginn added, what was important was that he built
trust with that Marine by sharing an experience and expressing values he lives by. The memories that Ginn held close during his retirement ceremony are what he is going to take with him as he starts a new chapter in his life.Wherever he goes, he will continue to lead, building trust and respect as the basis for success. “If you want to be an effective leader, you have to impress upon those you work with that you genuinely care about them,” said Ginn. “There’s an old saying, ‘no one cares what you know, until they know you
care.’ Once they understand that - they are willing to be shaped. I would like for the Marines who are continuing in the fight to know these valuable lessons that I have learned and lived my life by. Take every opportunity to get to know your Marines; so they can rely on you when they hit hard times. If you invest in and sacrifice for your Marines they will know you are a leader they can respect and follow.”
Courtesey photo
Xxenos, a military working dog, rests during one of his combat deployments. The retired MWD passed away two years ago at the age of 10. Xxenos had been retired three years and deployed three times during his career; twice to Iraq and once to Afghanistan. Xxenos was a Marine specialized search dog and spent his retirement with Master Sgt. Frank Ginn Jr. Ginn retired earlier this year at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, after 24 years of honorable and faithful service, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership and shaping the next generations of the Marine Corps.
Courtesey photo
Master Sgt. Frank Ginn Jr. waits at Incirlik Air Force Base with a military working dog to return to the U.S. after a deployment. The retired master sergeant and then Kennel Master was escorting the MWD home from Afghanistan. Ginn retired earlier this year at Marine Corps Air station Beaufort, after 24 years of honorable and faithful service, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership and shaping the next generations of the Marine Corps.
Courtesey photo
A Military working dog and handler memorial in camp Donahue, Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan honors the fallen Marines and MWDs that served between 2009 to 2012. Master Sgt. Frank Ginn Jr. was stationed here three times. His MWD teams were based out Camp Leatherneck to work among special operations forces and various units.
PMO continued from page 1
the Deputy Provost Marshal with PMO. “First we made sure that no one else was in the house and then were able to save their pets.” After getting everyone to safety and surveying the damage, Edick offered his help in any way possible, which the family accepted. Two weeks later, 12 military policemen volunteered to help Edick assist the family in taking out furniture and cleaning up various debris. “They have helped our family tremendously; I don’t think we could have done all this without their help,” said Yon. “We’re ready to get settled back into our own home, we will just have to slowly readjust and take it one step at a time.” The family has been staying with friends from their church since the fire and is waiting until they can move into their new house. The Provost Marshal’s Office has been an integral part of the community going above their mission to serve and protect others. “It was just one of those things that can happen at any time,” said Edick. “I want the community to know that this is just a part of what we do, ensuring that every Marine and family is fit to fight and taken care of.”
Photo by Lance Cpl. Terry Haynes, III
Captain Denver Edick (left) and David Stoopes (right) volunteer to help a family by removing appliances from a fire-damaged home aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, July 27. Edick and Stoopes are with PMO, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.
Photo by Lance Cpl. Terry Haynes, III
Military policemen volunteer to help a family by removing personal effects from a fire-damaged home aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, July 27. Military policemen responded to a call to assist the family in need. The military policeman are with PMO, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.
Photo by Lance Cpl. Terry Haynes, III
David Stoopes volunteers to remove articles of clothing from a fire-damaged home aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, July 27. Military policemen assisted a family as part of their mission to serve and protect others. Stoopes is with PMO, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.
Classifieds
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Friday, August 04, 2017
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The Jet Stream
Around the Corps
Friday, August 04, 2017
Marine visits battleground at which her grandfather fought serving as a Navajo Code Talker
Photo by Lance Cpl. Andy Martinez
Lance Cpl. Jeanette E. Fernando and other Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, hike towards the Iwo Jima memorial site on Mt. Suribachi, Iwo Jima, Japan, July 26, 2017. Fernando and other Marines in her squadron were given the opportunity to revisit the battlegrounds at which Fernando’s grandfather, a Navajo Code Talker, fought during World War II. Fernando is an airframe mechanic assigned to HMLA-169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently on a unit deployment program with 1st MAW based in Okinawa, Japan.
Story by: Lance Cpl. Andy Martinez, III Marine Expeditionary Force
CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, JAPAN -- More than 70 years ago, during World War II, a group of Native-American Marines known as Navajo Code Talkers used their native tongue, Navajo, to transmit secret strategic messages via radios. Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Peleliu, Iwo Jima: the Navajo code talkers took part in every assault the U.S. Marines conducted in the Pacific from 1942 to 1945. They served in all six Marine divisions, Marine raider battalions and Marine parachute units, transmitting messages by telephone and radio in their native language - a code that the Japanese never deciphered. Six Navajo Code Talkers were operating continuously during the invasion of Iwo Jima, a battle that yielded 27 Medals of Honor. They sent more than 800 messages with perfect accuracy. One of those six was Lance Cpl. Jeanette E. Fernando’s grandfather, Thomas Sandoval. On July 26, 2017, Fernando was given the opportunity to revisit the battlegrounds at which her grandfather fought so many years ago.
Her journey began in Okinawa where she is currently forward deployed on a unit deployment program with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. After a three hour flight, she finally arrived at Iwo Jima where she immediately started her 10 mile trek up Mt. Suribachi. “It’s an emotional experience,” said Fernando, an airframe mechanic with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. “There’s quite a connection, just knowing that my ancestors were here fighting in WWII. Under a beating sun, Fernando thought about her grandfather and what he must have gone through as she passed numerous rusted aircraft parts, anti-aerial weapons and other heavy artillery. “Everything was new to him,” Fernando said. “But that didn’t stop him. I’m able to be in Iwo Jima because of my ancestors, because of the Marines who fought so proudly before me.” Drenched in sweat and with aching muscles, Fernando made it to the summit. After a moment of silence, she removed her dog tags and placed them on the memorial to honor her grandfather and the other warriors
that fought for the island. “It was difficult but we pushed through it and made it to the top – it was all worth it” said Fernando. “I put myself in my ancestors’ boots who were here before me. I can’t imagine what they had to go through. They were pushing through day and night.” After a moment of rest she began the long journey back down the mountain. Halfway down the mountain she reached Invasion Beach. She made her way down the steep decline to the beachhead where she began gathering sand to take home and to the Marines back in her squadron.
With an added 20 pounds of sand strapped around her shoulders, Fernando made her way back to the plane. With determination in her eyes and encouraging words for her fellow Marines, she finally completed the hike. “Words can’t describe how it feels to stand on the land where my ancestors fought so hard to gain,” said Fernando. “I’m very grateful for what [the Navajo Code Talkers] sacrificed. They had the courage and dedication to participate in the program. I’m proud to be part of the Navajo nation.”
Courtesy photo
A Navajo Code Talker relays a message on a field radio. The code talkers served in the South Pacific during World War II and were kept a secret until 1968 when the Navajo code was finally declassified.
Photo by Lance Cpl. Andy Martinez
Lance Cpl. Jeanette E. Fernando holds a jar of sand taken from her trip to Iwo Jima, August 1, 2017, at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. Fernando and other Marines in her squadron were given the opportunity to revisit the battlegrounds at which Fernando’s grandfather, a Navajo Code Talker, fought during World War II. Fernando is an airframe mechanic assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently on a unit deployment program with 1st MAW based in Okinawa, Japan.
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Friday, August 04, 2017
Combat ready: VMFA-211 prepares mission commanders
A pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 “Wake Island Avengers,” 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, signals to a ground crew member after landing at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., July 5. A total of 10 F-35B Lightning IIs and 250 Marines with VMFA-211 participated in Red Flag 17-3, a realistic combat training exercise hosted by the U.S. Air Force, to assess the squadron’s ability to deploy and support contingency operations using the F-35B.
Story by: Sgt. Lillian Stephens Marine Corps Air Station Miramar / 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, NV, UNITED STATES — Pilots with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 “Wake Island Avengers,” 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, trained to qualify as mission commanders during exercise Red Flag 17-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, July 10 to 28. Mission commanders are responsible for planning, executing and supervising large-scale air missions — often utilizing different packages, which are aircraft, equipment or personnel dedicated to completing a particular mission objective, such as offensive counterair, suppression of enemy air defense or close air support. According to Maj. Chris Brandt, a pilot and administration and logistics officer in charge with VMFA-211, Red Flag is the best large-force exercise the United States has to offer — making it an ideal environment to train and become qualified as a mission commander. “You can have up to 50-plus aircraft on the blue side and then almost an equal amount on the red side. A mission commander is in charge of those blue forces,” said Maj. Brett Abbamonte, quality assurance officer with VMFA-211. “From the very start, [he’s in charge] of generating a plan, going into the planning process, running the planning process with all these different assets, coordinating with all his package commanders … and the tactical plan to succeed and win the mission.” The Avengers, along with more than 50 units and 80 aircraft will conduct missions at the Nevada Test and Training Range, which has more than 12,000 square miles of air space, 2.9 million acres of land and has more than 1,900 possible targets, realistic threat systems and an opposing enemy force. A pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 “Wake Island Avengers,” 3rd “Training at large-force exercises at home [is] great practice Marine Aircraft Wing, prepares to exit an F-35B Lightning II after landing at Nellis Air Force to give that mission commander experience so that when the Base, Nev., July 10. A total of 10 F-35B Lightning IIs and 250 Marines with VMFA-211 day comes that we go to combat and execute a large mission, participated in Red Flag 17-3, a realistic combat training exercise hosted by the U.S. Air we have qualified mission commanders that can come up with a Force, to assess the squadron’s ability to deploy and support contingency operations good plan, brief, lead and execute and then also debrief us,” said using the F-35B. Abbamonte. VMFA-211’s pilots had to qualify as section leads, division leads and, in most cases, Weapons and Tactics Instructors (WTI) prior to this training exercise. Each trainee will have an instructor pilot at their side through“Having more mission commanders will make us out the evaluation process, said Abbamonte. “I’m going through a mission commander upmore combat effective,” said Abbamonte. “I can’t grade so that’s going to take a lot of my time really think of a better place then Red Flag or WTI, and focus. A lot of times at home station, we’re working just with each other,” said where you have this many assets coming together … basically Brandt. “It’s not until exercises like these that you get to train across services and with plator a more real-life scenario.” forms that you typically would not work with at your home station.” Red Flag 17-3 will include the U.S.’s air, ground, space and cyber forces from each branch of service — forces that mission commanders will coordinate with for planning, execution and post-mission debrief “Having more mission commanders will make us more combat efA pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 “Wake Island fective,” said Abbamonte. “I can’t really think of a better place then Avengers,” 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, signals to a ground crew member after Red Flag or WTI, where you have this many assets coming togethlanding at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., July 5. A total of 10 F-35B Lightning er … or a more real-life scenario.” IIs and 250 Marines with VMFA-211 participated in Red Flag 17-3, a realistic combat training exercise hosted by the U.S. Air Force, to assess the squadron’s ability to deploy and support contingency operations using the F-35B.
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The Jet Stream
Friday, August 04, 2017
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