Jet Stream
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The
Friday, April 18, 2014 Vol. 49, No. 15 Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C.
WWII POW remembers See Page 15
“The noise you hear is the sound of freedom.”
n Entertainment n News Briefs n Weather n In The Community n Around The Corps
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Starbase applies STEM to careers Page 4
Beaufort County JROTC visits Fightertown Page 12
Sweathogs welcome new sergeant major Page 13
JUSTIN MOORE GOES
“OFF THE BEATEN PATH” TO
FIGHTERTOWN Cpl. John Wilkes
Thousands of spectators attended country musician Justin Moore’s “Off the Beaten Path” tour aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Apr. 12. Justin Moore, Randy Houser and Josh Thompson performed for hundreds of Beaufort residents. The concert, which was open to the public, was organized by Marine Corps Community Services to entertain service members and allow them to kick up their feet and enjoy the music. For more pictures, tag them at www.facebook.com/MCASBeaufort. Lance Cpl. Brendan Roethel Staff Writer
Thousands of spectators attended country musician Justin Moore’s “Off the Beaten Path” tour aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Apr. 12. Moore, recently named “best new artist of the year” at the 49th Academy of Country Music Awards, headlined the show with guests Randy Houser and Josh Thompson. The concert,
which was open to the public, was organized by Marine Corps Community Services to entertain service members and allow them to kick up their feet and enjoy the music. “Wherever I go, our nation’s troops and military families are never far from my thoughts and prayers,” Moore said. “The dedication and sacrifice of these service members mean the world to me, and are the reason I’m able to live out my dreams today. I
can’t thank them enough for everything they do for us every day. I am honored to perform for them.” Moore has released three albums: Justin Moore in 2009, Outlaws Like Me in 2011, and Off the Beaten Path in 2013. He has charted eight times on the Hot Country Songs charts, including number one hits “Small Town USA”, “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away”, and “Til My Last Day”. “I think performing for the
military is one of the most awesome experiences I’ve ever had,” said Thompson. “It’s exciting to be able to come here to perform. This is amazing and I’m glad to be here. Thank you all for everything you do for our country. Without you events like this could not be possible.” Thompson released his debut album Way Out Here in January 2010. The album has produced three top 40 hits for him on the charts: “Beer on the Table”, “Way
Company grade officers offered reserve opportunities Lance Cpl. Brendan Roethel Staff Writer
Active duty company grade officers can transition to the Marine Corps Reserves early through the Company Grade Officer Early Out Program, according to Marine administrative message 179/14, released April 7. The program is a force-shaping reduction program available to officers from second lieutenant to captain. This program allows active duty officers to continue their careers as reservists. It’s also an opportunity to
guarantee a reserve billet no earlier than 120 days prior to reaching their end of active service date. All applicants must enter into a contract and commit to a minimum two-year obligation with the Marine Corps Reserve. Individual Marines must submit requests to participate in the early out program with their command. Officers interested in this program are encouraged to submit their package no earlier than 18 months from see
early out, page 6
Force Shaping: Officers offered early out Lance Cpl. Brendan Roethel Staff Writer
Marine officers looking to separate from active duty early can apply for the Officer Voluntary Early Release program, according to Marine Administrative Message 178/14, released Apr. 4. The program is a costsaving initiative that allows active duty Marine Officers, with an end of active service date from Oct. 1, 2014 to Sept. 30, 2016, to voluntarily separate the Corps up to 180 days prior to their current EAS; however, it
doesn’t exempt Marines from completing reserve or ready reserve obligations on their contract. “Upon early release, the Marine will be considered to have completed their full active service,” said Gunnery Sgt. Orion Murray, the career planner for Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. “Applicants should apply as soon as possible and submit their packages at least 30 days before their requested early release date.” Requirements to be accepted for the OVER pro-
gram include being eligible for an honorable or general under honorable conditions discharge and completing all pre-separation counseling and medical separation qualifications prior to their early release. Marines must not be scheduled to go on a deployment at the time of their requested early release. Marines with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or traumatic brain injury will not be separated under the program until the treatment process is complete or a waiver of treatment evaluation has been ap-
proved. Marines pending court-martial or adverse administrative action are not eligible for this program until all administrative action is complete. Marine officers who have accepted a career designation, or are currently on terminal leave pending separation cannot apply. Marine officers who are indebted to the government, to include leave, also cannot participate in the program until they are no longer in debt. Indebted Marines desiring to sepsee
release, page 6
Out Here” and “Won’t Be Lonely Long”. In 2013, Thompson released “Cold Beer with Your Name on It”. “I just want to say thank you to the troops,” said Houser. “The military personnel dedicate years of their lives to help this country and protect the way of life that I have. I want you all to know that this performance is see
ConCert, page 8
Roughnecks welcome new CO Cpl.Timothy Norris Staff Writer
Maj. Lisa Deitle relinquished command of Combat Logistics Company 23 to Capt. Matthew Grill during a change of command ceremony aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, April 14. Deitle who has served as the commanding officer of the Roughnecks since July 2012 and will be the next executive officer of 4th Recruit Training Battalion aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. “It’s a legacy,” Deitle said. “I had the privilege of being at the helm to drive the ship for a while and now he has the privilege of being at the helm. He’s enthusiastic and ready to go. He’ll bring something new and make the detachment better.” Grill’s previous duty station was with 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, known as the Magnificent Bastards. He served as the ordnance officer, field mess officer, embark officer, unit user account manager and equal opportunity officer. “I’m coming from a very operational-driven unit; it was see
roughneCks, page 7
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The Jet Stream
Games and Entertainment
Friday, April 18, 2014
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 (1:51)
Saturday 7 p.m. PG-13 (1:57)
MCRD Parris Island Movie Schedule
Saturday, Sunday and holidays Brunch: 8:30 - 11 a.m. Dinner: 4 - 6 p.m.
No Evening Movie
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 Bayou jerk pork loin Beef short ribs and and rice roasted zucchini Lunch Salmon with cucumber relish
Sunday
Dinner Baked ziti with italian sausage
Sunday 2 p.m. PG (1:32)
Sunday 4:30 p.m. PG (1:48)
Easter Word Search
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
Answer key will be available on facebook.com/MCASBeaufort on April 23.
Sudoku
Other Faith Groups • For Jewish, Mormon and Islamic support, contact the Chaplain’s Office at 228-7775
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.
Answer key will be available on facebook.com/MCASBeaufort on April 23.
Command Information
The Jet Stream
Tri-Command Weather 7 Day Forecast
Friday, April 18, 2014
High Shooter Gunnery Sgt. S. St. Louis MWSS-273
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Did you know...
Happenings The Eggstravaganza Easter Celebration is scheduled to take place April 19, at the youth sports field aboard Laurel Bay. The Easter Bunny will be available for pictures. For more information call 228-7333.
The 8th Annual Earth Day Fun Walk is scheduled to take place April 22, at Elliot’s Beach aboard MCRD Parris Island at 11 a.m. All ages are welcome. For more information call 228-4930.
Forecast according to weather.com
The Single Marine and Sailor Program Paintball Trip is slated to take place May 3. Registration is required. For more information call 228-6246.
April 21, 1951, Marine carrierbased airplanes made their first aerial contact with enemy planes over the Korean front lines. Captain Philip C. Delong shot down two YAK fighters and 1st Lieutenant Harold D. Daigh destroyed one more and damaged another in the heavily defended Pyongyang-Chinnanpo area. Both pilots were with VMF-312 flying from the USS Bataan.
Jet Stream The
A Rape Agression Defense Class is scheduled to take place April 30, at the log cabin aboard MCAS Beaufort from 6 - 9 p.m. Registration is required. For more information call 228-1580.
The MCAS Beaufort Pistol Range is cancelling Recreational Fire until further notice due to range maintenance. For more information call Station Training at 228-6642.
The photocopying of U.S. Government identification cards is a violation of Title 18, U.S. Code Part I, Chapter 33, Section 701 and punishable by fine and imprisonment.
Contact us: 228-7225 mcasbeaufort@gmail.com BFRT_JPAO@usmc.mil Commanding Officer MCAS Beaufort Col. Peter D. Buck
Brain Teaser
Public Affairs Officer
Today as I was running late for work, I quickly got dressed and threw a t-shirt on in the dark. I had it on inside out with my right arm in the left sleeve, and my left arm in the right sleeve. Where was the label? Answer for this week’s brain teaser will be available on facebook.com/MCASBeaufort on April 23.
Capt. Jordan Cochran
Public Affairs Chief
Gunnery Sgt. Stephen Traynham
Press Chief
Staff Sgt. Terika S. King
Comm/Media Relations Chief Sgt. Marcy Sanchez
Editor
Cpl. John Wilkes
Staff Writers
Cpl. Sarah Cherry Cpl. Timothy Norris Cpl. Brady Wood Lance Cpl. Brendan Roethel
facebook.com/MCASBeaufort
youtube.com/mcasbeaufortsc1
beaufort.Marines.mil
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.
Service Members Civil Relief Act Legal Assistance Office
The following is an example based on real cases handled by Legal Assistance. The facts have been adjusted to protect the privacy of individuals involved. Rental leases can raise unique issues for service members and their families. Many of these issues are addressed by the Service Members’ Civil Relief Act. This information is not intended as legal advice. Consult a legal assistance attorney if you are experiencing a similar situation. A staff sergeant signs a residential lease agreement with First Apartment Homes from April 2010 to 2012. The staff sergeant goes on terminal leave at the end of November and wants to move back to his hometown in Texas, in preparation for the end of his active service in January. The staff sergeant attempts to break
the lease, but First Apartment Homes references a military clause in the lease agreement allowing the tenant to break the lease upon “separation.” The property argues that this provision applies only to involuntary separation. Chapter U5000B.4a. of the Joint Federal Travel Regulation includes, in a definition of “PCS travel types,” travel from the servicemember’s last Permanent Duty Station (PDS) to home “upon … discharge, resignation, or separation from the Service under honorable conditions.” The United States Department of Justice stands prepared to enforce the SCRA early lease termination provision in such cases. In March of 2012, the Department of Justice sued a property management company for carrying forward company policy not allowing early lease termination for those who are getting out of the service.
Be sure to negotiate this protection into your lease terms and, seek out legal assistance in order to safeguard your rights and privileges. The Legal Assistance section of Legal Services Support Team Parris Island, which provides Legal Services for MCAS Beaufort, MCRD Parris Island, MCLB Albany, and Blount Island is available to provide legal advice on all matters related to the SCRA, rental leases, landlord-tenant matters, and various other legal issues. Legal Assistance appointments are no longer available on MCAS Beaufort. Please call (843) 228-2559 to schedule an appointment. Refer to the LSST PI Legal Assistance website for more information on the SCRA and services available at Legal Assitance: https://www.mcrdpi.usmc.mil/ ops/lawcenter/SitePages/Legal%20Assistance.aspx
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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The Jet Stream
In The Community
Friday, April 18, 2014
Fifth-grade students from Bridges Preparatory School in Port Royal spent a week aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort participating in the Starbase program, Apr. 6-11. Students were taught how to use a three dimensional printer, advanced engineering computer programs, and more. They also conducted experiments involving physics, chemistry and engineering, such as testing and comparing how different chemicals react with water.
Starbase inspires youth to reach for the stars Lance Cpl. Brendan Roethel Staff Writer
Fifth-grade students from Bridges Preparatory School in Port Royal spent a week aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort participating in the Starbase program, Apr. 6-11. Starbase is a Department of Defense program implemented to expose youth to the technological environments found throughout military bases and installations. Starbase incorporates concepts used in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, while introducing new tools, technologies and experimental applications in the school’s curriculum. Students were taught how to use a three dimensional printer, advanced engineering computer programs, and more. They also conducted experiments involving physics,
chemistry and engineering, such as testing and comparing how different chemicals react with water. “Allowing the children to learn hands-on really helps them think outside of the box, and see how what they learn in their own classrooms is applied in real life,” said Savanah French, the lead instructor for Starbase. “This curriculum gets the students outside of their classroom and in a different and fun environment to learn. It also encourages them to be motivated and more proactive learners.” The DoD Starbase curriculum includes 3.5 hours in physics, 3.5 hours in chemistry, 4 hours in technology, 4 hours in engineering, 2 hours in mathematics operations and applications, and 1.5 hours in STEM careers. The course curriculum
also extends from the classroom to squadrons where students are able to meet pilots, Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Marines or service members in other professions. This allows the students to see how STEM affects the daily lives of Marines in various occupations. “This is a great experience,” said Ty Farley, a fifth-grade student at Bridges Preparatory School. “It has opened my eyes to so many different jobs, and gave me tools I can take away and use for the rest of my life.” A graduation ceremony is held at the end of the weeklong class to recognize the students for their accomplishments while aboard the Air Station. For more information about the DoD Starbase visit www.dodstarbase. org. To schedule a visit, call 524-1320.
Fifth-grade students from Bridges Preparatory School in Port Royal conduct experiments on the effects of chemical reactions during a Starbase class aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Apr. 8. The Starbase program focuses on elementary students. The programs mission is to motivate the students to explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Math as they continue their education.
Tri-Command children branch out with STEMposium Cpl. Sarah Cherry Staff Writer
Bolden Elementary and Middle School held their second STEMposium, an event focused on introducing students to science, technology, engineering and math projects and career fields, April 9 through 11. The STEMposium is a three-day event including a career day, a student project competition, and an award ceremony. “We know for a fact that this is what the kids need,” said Javier Graham, STEMposium coordinator and video production teacher at Bolden. “They’re so engaged.” This year is the schools second year holding the STEMposium. “I can see advancement from what I saw last year,” said Graham. “The kids are adding more coding, costumes, figures and characters. There’s a definite increase in [skill].” Each grade had a different focus for this project. Sixth-grade students had a NASA project building rockets, satellites, and solar ovens for
a trip to the moon. Seventh and eighth grade students built robots and computer games. The day students presented their projects and the previous day, professionals talked to students about different STEM career paths and their value. “All of our equipment within the explosive ordnance disposal field deals with science, technology, engineering and math,” said Master Sgt. Jason Chrjapin, explosive ordnance disposal technician. “The next robot designer for the EOD field is out there somewhere. They could quite possibly be here at this elementary school.” According to the U.S. Department of Education, the United States position as a global leader is reliant on youth pursuing STEM careers and interests. “This is America’s next generation,” said Staff Sgt. Timothy Golden, EOD technician. “Investing in them [with STEM education] might spark an interest in learning so that they’ll want to educate themselves more than just the bare basics.”
Elementary school children present their science, technology, engineering and math projects at Bolden Elementary and Middle School, April 10. Bolden implemented their first STEM focused event last year, and teachers are currently expanding the STEM curriculum.
James Richmann, a seventh grade student at Bolden Elementary and Middle School, presents his robot project during the STEMposium, April 10. Seventh and eighth grade students chose between developing a robot or video game, developing their science, technology, engineering and math skills.
The Jet Stream
In The Community
Friday, April 18, 2014
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Cub Scouts with Pack 283 of the Coastal Carolina Council raced up and down the streets of Laurel Bay during a bike rally, April 5. Each participating Cub Scout earned a bicycling belt loop and bike rally patch after the short trip around Laurel Bay.
Pack 283 rides across Laurel Bay Cpl. Timothy Norris Staff Writer
Cub Scouts with Pack 283 of the Coastal Carolina Council raced up and down the streets of Laurel Bay during a bike rally, April 5. The rally helped teach the scouts about bike maintenance and safety, culminating in a short bike ride as a pack around Laurel Bay.
Cub Scouts is an organization that prepares boys age seven to 10 for Boy Scouts. The programs focus on citizenship, education, physical fitness and strong moral principles. “Today they learned about bike safety, which is paramount,” said Israel Gonzales, a den leader for Pack 283. “While they are riding their bikes on Laurel Bay they need to wear their safety equipment properly and know the
traffic laws. They also learned how to check their bicycles to make sure they work properly.” Several Boy Scouts from troop one of the council took an active role in the event as they demonstrated to their younger peers how to properly inspect and make minor adjustments to their bikes. “It was fun,” said Kobyn Housel, a Cub Scout with Pack 283, adding that his new knowledge
“makes me feel more safe when riding a bike.” Each participating Cub Scout earned a bicycling belt loop and bike rally patch after the short trip around Laurel Bay. Gonzales said that scouting is a great way to help teach life skills that will help them later in life. “It is a great organization,” he said. “They have a lot of fun and they are learning good moral
principles like how to be a good citizen.” He also added that scouting is also a great program for military families because of the mentorship available to children whos’ fathers are deployed. “Sometimes [when a parent] is not there because of deployments,” Gonzales said. “Having something to look forward to that guides and mentors them is why scouts is good for them.”
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The Jet Stream
More of The Story
Friday, April 18, 2014
EARLY OUT continued from page 1
their requested EAS, and no later than six months prior to their requested EAS. The officer's requested EAS must come before Sept. 30, 2016. Officers shall ensure their paperwork is received at Headquarters Marine Corps no later than four months prior to their requested EAS. The early out program allows participants to access the TRI-
CARE Transitional Assistance Management Program, which includes a six-month extension of their existing TRICARE benefits at no cost to the transitioning Marine. Monetary and retraining incentives may be applied for in conjunction with the Marine’s early out request. “The TAMP provides 180 days of premium-free transitional health care benefits after regular TRICARE benefits end,” said Gunnery Sgt. Orion Murray, career planner for Headquarters and Headquar-
ters Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. To be eligible for the program officers must not be career designated or screened, and not selected for career designation. Marines separated from active duty under the program will be classified as having completed their obligated period of active duty. Early separation under this program allows Marines to receive all of their applicable benefits. For more information view MARADMIN 179/14.
RELEASE continued from page 1
arate early can make accelerated repayments of their debts by increasing scheduled installment amounts, and by making cash collections to repay their indebtedness. Marines released under the OVER program will be considered as having completed their obligated period of active duty. Early separation under this program allows service members to receive all of their applicable benefits. For more information on the OVER program, view MARADMIN 178/14.
More of The Story
The Jet Stream
Friday, April 18, 2014
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Closing an era
Courtesy Photo
When the “Checkerboards” of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 312 flew its final mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom March 19, it was also the U.S. Marine Corps’ last OEF mission for its F/A-18 Hornets. “It’s a culmination of what the Marine Corps stands for,” said Lt. Col. Nathan Miller, VMFA-312 commanding officer. “We represent all of the Marines that have come over here and fought. It means a lot to be able to support our brothers and coalition forces that are currently on the ground and to close a chapter for the Marine Corps.”
ROUGHNECKS
Refreshments were served after the ceremony and both Grill and Deitle went from one Marine to another taking time continued from page 1 to speak with everyone. “She really looked out for the Marines,” said Sgt. Daniel Recour main focus,” said Grill, a native of Phoenix, Ariz. “Now my tor, CLC-23 automotive mechanic. “She’s always trying to betfocus is more on the administrative side, taking care of the ter the junior Marines and the unit as a whole and I’m eager to Marines and ensuring there’re ready for a high operational see what the captain has in store for the [unit].” tempo.” Grill arrived at the Air Station several weeks prior to the
change of command to help with a smooth transition and embedded himself with the unit. He was not dissapointed with what he observed of the Roughnecks. “Even though I’ve been here a short time I think the world of these Marines,” Grill said. “I came from a unit with extremely close-knit Marines and I’ve seen that same brotherhood here. They are an impressive group of Marines and I’m proud to be a part of their unit.”
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More of The Story
Friday, April 18, 2014
Justin Moore, Randy Houser, Josh Thompson rock Fightertown
CONCERT continued from page 1
for you. I can’t thank you all enough for keeping our nation and way of life secure.” Randy Houser charted the single “Anything Goes”. It was a top 20 hit on the Billboard country singles chart and the title track to his debut album of the same name, which also produced his first top 10 hit, “Boots On”. In 2012, he reached number one with “How Country Feels”, the title track to his third album, and with “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight” in 2013. During the performance, hit songs
“Bait a Hook” by Moore, “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight” by Houser and “Cold Beer with Your Name on It” by Thompson were performed. “Marines this event is for you,” said Col. Peter Buck, the commanding officer for Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. “You have all been doing really well, working hard and keeping your nose clean. I thank you for everything you do to keep the Air Station up and running, and I hope you all enjoy the performance.” At the end of the performance the musicians thanked the fans for attending the concert and supporting them. They also thanked the service members of the Tri-Command for their continued service.
Classifieds
The Jet Stream
Friday, April 18, 2014
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The Jet Stream
Around The Corps
Friday, April 18, 2014
Corps Bits
VMA-542 Marines learn shipboard firefighting MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- With flames, smoke and gallons of water dancing over a fire rescue training aircraft, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Marines learned the basics of shipboard firefighting at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., April 3. Members of Marine Attack Squadron 542 hosted six sailors with the Center for Naval Aviation and Technical Training, Lemoore, Calif., in preparation for an upcoming deployment with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. VMA-542 Marines learned about personal protective equipment, flight and hangar deck equipment and systems, and procedures and techniques for combating fires, according to Chief Petty Officer Daniel Guevara. The Marines spent a full day training and learning the foundations and tactics of shipboard firefighting because, aboard ship, each crewmember is a first responder. During emergencies, there is no calling 911, everyone has a responsibility to act, according to Guevara. “This course teaches Marines the basics of what to do in case of an emergency aboard a ship,” said Guevara. For many of the Marines in the class, fighting aircraft fires is not part of their day-to-day duties. Training and learning from the CNATT Sailors helped the squadron’s Marines further prepare for their assigned roles while underway. During training, each Marine had several opportunities to practice different roles as part of a hose-crew. Each Marine had the opportunity to control the hose nozzle during dry-run practice and then with flames. This allowed the Marines to experience each position of the hose, ensuring that they will be ready to jump into any position if needed.
‘Ace in the hole,’ VMR-1 supports contingency operations MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Marines with Marine Transport Squadron 1 departed Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point April 8 in one of the squadron’s C-9B Skytrains in support of II Marine Expeditionary Force. The unit has committed a UC-35D Citation in support of Special-Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response, said Lt. Col. Brain D. Bernth, VMR-1 commanding officer. SP-MAGTF Crisis Response is a rotational force of Marines and sailors temporarily stationed at Moron Air Base, Spain. The unit was stood up to a provide a broad range of military capabilities to respond to crises in its area of responsibility to include non-combatant evacuation, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and support to U.S. embassies, and other operations as directed by national and command leadership. This squadron is unlike any other squadron in the Marine Corps. The most visible mission Marines and sailors perform is critical medical evacuations and search and rescue support with their HH-46E Sea Knight helicopters. A less visible but important mission is providing movement for high priority passengers and cargo in support of wartime operations, said Bernth. But the squadron is new to providing operational support to crisis response forces. Bernth said that the use of their Skytrain helps the MAGTF greatly because the squadron has the ability to ferry essential personnel and gear fast and on short notice. Unlike the KC-130J Hercules or MV-22B Osprey, they get to key locations in just under a day. That critical element is what allows VMR-1 and their Skytrains to be an “ace in the hole,” he said. VMR-1 is able to come together as a whole and shuffle their aircraft around, allowing them to rely heavily on their Skytrain and Citation to support various contingency forces and transport personnel and cargo when needed, while their Sea Knights perform search and rescue missions.
An MV-22B Osprey from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response flies into Tifnit, Morocco, to demonstrate the rapidresponse capability of the airframe during a multinational observer day for African Lion 14. Exercise African Lion is U.S. Africa Command’s flagship program in Northern Africa to build partner-nation capacity and interoperability. The African Lion 14 Observer Program was built to showcase the exercise to potential participants, setting the foundation for more robust military engagements in future iterations.
Multinational participation key factor to Exercise African Lion
Sgt. Frances Johnson
“It’s important because we have long-time friendships with these countries and we want to AGADIR, Morocco -build a way to work together betIn the current global-security ter,” said Cianci. environment, one nation isn’t enough. After decades of over“When you work or exercise seas contingency operations, with other countries, you have to from the sands of Afghanistan to share; share the knowledge to do the jungles of Mali, coalitions are the jobs; we are showing them a clear indicator of partner na- our ways to do jobs and they will tions’ commitment to worldwide show us their way and we find a stability and security. good compromise for both of us Exercise African Lion is U.S. to achieve the mission.” Africa Command’s flagship The U.S. Marine Corps Forces program in Northern Africa to Europe and Africa-led engagebuild partner-nation capacity ment is one of the biggest of and interoperability. With more its kind on the continent and, regional cooperation between during African Lion 14, hosted a North African nations, bring- multilateral event that included ing more partners into the mix military observers from Mauritawould increase expertise, ca- nia, Egypt, Tunisia, Turkey, Great pabilities and professionalism Britain, Belgium, the Netheracross the board. lands, Portugal, Germany, Spain, “We are very keen to work to- Senegal, Poland, Turkey, Italy and gether with [Moroccans]; they France. are great partners for us and we “It’s great training for the Mawant to practice and exercise rines and the Moroccans, but with them as much as possible,” now we’d like to bring in some said Italian Commander Fernan- more participation and this was do Cianci, STRIKFORNATO. the first year we’ve had that opThis year’s multilateral event portunity with the Observer wasn’t exclusively between the Program,” said Marine Brig. Gen. Kingdom of Morocco and the James S. O’Meara, deputy comUnited States; the three-week mander of Marine Forces Europe event hosted Geo-spatial intel- and Africa. ligence professionals from the The African Lion 14 Observer German Bundeswehr Geo-spa- Program was built to showcase tial Intelligence Office as well as the exercise to potential particimembers of Naval Striking and pants, setting the foundation for Support Forces NATO, with repre- more robust military engagesentatives from the U.S., Portugal, ments in future iterations. Poland and Italy. “So far it’s been very good, very STRIKFORNATO is NATO’s pre- positive,” said O’Meara. “It brings miere Maritime Battlestaff. One more of a coalition approach to of their primary functions is to help AFRICOM and Morocco, beserve as a link for integrating U.S. ing a key player in Africa, this is a Maritime Forces into NATO op- great exercise to do that.” erations. The rapidly-deployable, “Bringing in more of our partmaritime headquarters operates ners from Africa and Europe will under a Memorandum of Un- bring in different expertise, inderstanding, signed between 11 teroperability; it will help us work nations, that “provides scalable together in the future by helpcommand-and-control across a ing different partners learn from full spectrum of alliance funda- each other. The more ‘multilatermental security tasks,” according al’ we can make the exercise, the to its official webpage. more we can each gain from it Marine Expeditionary Brigade - Afghanistan
and, in the future when we need to come together for contingencies and crises.” The observer program included an introduction about past iterations of African Lion exercises, the simulated scenarios, site visits to the Moroccan military and civilian ports, and a demonstration of stability operations by a contingent of military police officers from U.S. Marine, Army and Air Force personnel along with their counterparts. The Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response rapidresponse capability was demonstrated with flight of two MV-22B Ospreys from Moron, Spain, directly to the northwest coast of Africa. “It’s very important from a naval perspective; we say that no one can police the seas by themselves, so we have to do it together,” said Senegalese Commander Baye Khoule, an observer of African Lion 14. “For [the Economic Community of West African States], we have 15 countries and have sent troops for UN mandated operations – we can have the world to do that. Working with our partners will help us a lot to accomplish those missions.” Regional partners working together in an exercise the magnitude of African Lion will provide familiarity when the time comes for real-world contingencies. “If you work together, train together, you start to think more alike, and our equipment works well together, all of that will make the transition for a coalition a little easier from an ice-cold start of never working together,” said O’Meara. The 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade operated its capacity to integrate with partner-nation militaries and respond to contingencies if it were deployed to support contingencies with a scalable, joint task force of Marines and fellow U.S. service components.
“In a crisis, the first time you’re planning it, you don’t want the people you’re working with to be the first time you’ve ever seen them. This year, having the 2nd MEB and SP-MAGTF Crisis Response here, all that has added to the benefit of the exercise,” said O’Meara. Next year’s scheduled iteration, African Lion 15, has already been slated as a more profound training engagement, with more servicemembers from more nations, robust live-fire engagements, and aerial tactics and training workshops with support from an international contingent of fighter-jet squadrons. “If not for any other reason, to at least share the same concerns on a global perspective and try to find common solutions for common problems, there’s no better way with dealing with a problem or situation than knowing your partner, knowing where they’re strong, where they’re weak, so challenges can be easily overcome,” said Portuguese Navy Commander Manual A. Mota, STRIKFORNATO. The engagement hopes to build more proficiency and maintain the partnerships it’s been built, progressing every year to work toward international integration of armed services sharing knowledge, tactics and procedures, especially those partners in the region. “Any multinational coalition has this virtue, of bringing different ideas, different ways of doing the same business and bringing things into context and hopefully we, together, find the optimized solution for similar problems that each one individually would have to deal with.” African Lion 14 concluded its ninth iteration April 5. The exercise hopes to bolster more robust participation to promote stability and security of the region by working with long-time partners and strategic friendships.
Corps Shot LCpl. Andrew Kuppers
Su Song Ri Range, Pohang, South Korea - M1A1 Abrams Tanks with Company C., 4th Tank Battalion, Marine Corps Forces Reserve, fire 120mm rounds at targets during a combined arms, live-fire exercise (CALFEX) as part of Exercise Ssang Yong 2014, April 4.
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Fightertown deployed: VMFA-312 Checkerboards are currently deployed to the Mediterranean to promote security in the region.
Friday, April 18, 2014
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Corps Bits
VMFA(AW)-224 Bengals are currently deployed to the Western Pacific as part of the Unit Deployment Program.
MALS-31 Stingers a detachment is currently deployed to the Western Pacific supporting VMFA(AW)-224.
“War Dogs” revise mortar skills
Exercise Twisting Thunder 2014 creates havoc, trains personnel Sgt. Paul Robbins Jr.
Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany
building during one simulation. The scenario required the firemen use various heavy duty equipment to breech walls of concrete, crawl into a small confined space, find the victim and bring him out safely. While in full gear, the firemen chiseled meticulously at a concrete barrier until a hole was created large enough for personnel to travel through. The effort included being required to take breaks during the exercise to prevent exhaustion and dehydration. That single simulation took more than an hour to complete. During these types of exercises, rescuing victims is expected. However, logistics of other issues relating to funding, repair to damaged buildings and accommodations for displaced military family members were also suc-
cessfully addressed during the drill, according to Jacobs. Throughout the exercise, evaluators were present in the EOC as well as in the field to observe and suggest areas of improvement. Evaluators deemed Twisting Thunder 2014 successful, according to Jacobs. It was the first exercise they have seen on the East Coast from the Marine Corps installation level that has lasted overnight. During the roughly 30 consecutive hours of training, Jacobs revealed many lessons were learned in effectively communicating within the organization as well as with entities in the community. He added it was evident this type of training is very necessary. “We have to eliminate any single point of failure,” Jacobs
said. “We have to get everyone trained.” Representatives from several MCLB Albany offices, including but not limited to, the Marine Corps Police Department, Public Affairs Office, Marine Corps Fire Department, Base Operations, Comptrollers’ Office and Naval Branch Health Clinic Albany, were present in the EOC. Some of the partnering agencies included Georgia Emergency Management Agency, Georgia Department of Public Health, Dougherty County/Albany Emergency Management Agency, Dougherty County Coroner, Dougherty County Police Department, Dougherty County Emergency Medical Service, Albany Fire Department, Amateur Radio Association, Turner Job Corps and others.
MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE ALBANY -- Twisting Thunder 2014 barreled onto Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, April 1, leaving 28 simulated fatalities, two collapsed structures, trapped victims, a host of injuries and displaced families. “The two-day exercise tested the procedures, plans and policies in place in the event of a tornado on the installation as well as the coordination between partnering agencies,” Marvin Thomas, chemical biological radiological nuclear explosives protection officer, Mission Assurance Branch, MCLB Albany, said. “The goal was to return MCLB Albany to preincident operating conditions.” To mimic an actual tornado event, the scenarios were chaotic and the participants were unaware of exactly what would happen or when. This forced quick decisions to be made pertaining to how to handle each crisis, who would be involved and how, according to Thomas. Within an hour of the simulated tornado touching down, there was a fuel spill, a missing child, a building collapse with possible victims, 12 casualties and a transformer being destroyed reported to the emergency operations center. As in an actual disaster, the EOC served as the command and control cell, which coordinated the efforts and operations, testing the base’s ability to stand up the EOC for a sustained period, according to Capt. Justin Jacobs, public affairs officer, MCLB Albany. Albany and MCLB Albany fire departments worked together feverously to rescue a victim A fireman cuts debris to be repurposed as a tool to assist in the rescue of a simulated victim April from a small space of a collapsed 1 during Twisting Thunder 2014 at Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany.
HMLA-367’s ‘Scarface’ deal lethal strikes Lance Cpl. Matthew Bragg Marine Corps Base Hawaii
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION KANEOHE BAY -- Marines and sailors with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367 maintain a busy workload week in and week out in Hangar 101 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. The squadron’s mission is to maintain each aircraft and complete assigned missions, as well as maintaining force readiness and be prepared to deploy at a moment’s notice. Known as “Scarface,” HMLA-367 is equipped with two types of aircraft: The AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter and UH1Y Huey helicopter. Both helicopters are equipped with weapons from the nose to the tail, making “Scarface” a lethal fighting force in the air. “Hueys are amazing machines,” said Lance Cpl. Killian Desbois, a Huey crew chief with HMLA-367, and a 22-year-old native of Courtland, Va. “While they’re primarily a utility helicopter they provide great support with close ground operations. We can land and insert a small team of Marines on the battlefield, take off and cover them with air support.” Although pilots are the ones flying the aircraft, they need someone to watch their back, ensure the aircraft runs as smooth as possible. That’s where the crew chiefs come in. Every flight is an important one, so the crew chiefs inspect the entire aircraft before powering up and taking off. “As crew chiefs, the most important thing we do is serve the pilots when we’re in the air,” said Lance Cpl. Keith McLaughlin, a Huey crew chief with HMLA-367, 23, from Santa Fe, Texas. “When we’re not flying or getting ready to fly, we assist the
pilots in the inspection and maintenance of each aircraft. It’s our job to make sure everything is read before takeoff so there aren’t any unexpected problems when we get in the air.” As the pilots and crew chiefs launch from the flight line in their aircraft, maintenance Marines stay on the ground to help guide the pilots down the runway to take off. “Scarface” conducts numerous flight operations throughout the week to sustain familiarity with the aircraft. The squadron has been an integral part of MCAS Kaneohe Bay operations and the Asia-Pacific region through its two
years of service aboard the base. Though the unit is rarely at full capacity and often stretched thin with personnel, “Scarface” still manages to complete its required annual Marine Corps training, flight training and aircraft inspections as well as participating in various exercises and deployments. “With the Marine Corps beginning to shift its focus back to the west, we’re going to be busy with plenty of training and operations,” Desbois explained. “’Scarface’ has only been a part of MCAS (Kaneohe Bay) for a couple of years, but I think we’ve already proven we’re a vital asset in the Pacific.”
A maintenance Marine with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367 waits for a UH1Y Huey Helicopter to depart from the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, April 9, 2014. HMLA-367 plays an important role in the everyday operations aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii and has proven to be a vital asset in the Pacific as the Marine Corps begins to shift its focus back to the west.
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - Explosions shook the valley as the Marines with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, put mortars on target from hundreds of yards away. The unit, nicknamed “War Dogs,” traveled from Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., to conduct a live mortar fire exercise on the different types of terrain the base has to offer here April 4, 2014. The exercise allowed the Marines to sharpen their skills on different mortar systems used in deployed scenarios, Kreis said. The Marines had to judge distances for the targets and calculate the angles in order to land rounds on target while firing on foreign terrain with two types of mortar systems. “The better Marines train and conduct themselves in a scenario like this, the better they will conduct themselves when the pressure is actually on and they need to get rounds down range,” said Cpl. Evan Bryant, a mortar man with Weapons Co. “The more practice you get in a controlled environment, the better you will be able to fire when a squad or a team of Marines needs suppressive fire during an operation.” Practicing and honing their skills in a safe and practical environment is essential to the Marine’s success in the future, said Bryant, a native of Louisville, Ky. The biggest challenge the Marines faced was adjusting and calculating for distance on challenging and unfamiliar terrain. The Marines of Weapons Co. quickly overcame the challenges of firing in a new terrain and successfully put mortar fire on their targets. They continue to hone their craft on the mortar system, keep accurate and timely fire on target, and most importantly, support Marines on the battlefield who need the fire support. When the mortar teams come together, they’ll prove the “War Dogs” are a deadly force.
Company G seizes K-3 Airfield during Ssang Yong ‘14 POHANG, South Korea -- As soon as the back door to the CH-53E Super Stallion opens, Marines and sailors rush out fully geared with large packs on their shoulders and rifles at ready. Underneath their thudding boots, the pavement on airfield spread wide and far. Marines with Company G, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Regimental Landing Team 31, 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade, seized an airfield here for follow-on operations as part of Exercise Ssang Yong 14, an exercise conducted from March 31 to April 5. CH-53 Super Stallions and MV-22 Ospreys from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced) provided the transportation to get the company from the USS Bohnomme Richard (LHD-6) at sea to the airfield. After defeating a notional platoon-sized enemy force, the Marines and sailors emplaced defensive measures and around-theclock security using M240G medium machine guns, M2 .50-caliber machine guns, 81mm mortar systems and other heavy weapons. Controlling the airfield allowed follow-on forces to flow in, as well as supplies and fuel, while also providing a hub for combined operations between U.S., ROK and Australian forces. “This airfield is a key part to our allied forces’ interoperability,” said Cpl. Trevor W. Litchfield, a mortar man with Co. G and a native of San Diego. “Not only can the rest of the MEB flow in behind us, but using this airfield as a branching off point can strengthen positions more forward than us.” For some of the Marines, the weather conditions were a far cry from the warmer temperatures they were used to in Okinawa or San Diego. Although the temperature dropped rapidly overnight and harsh wind and rain whipped across their position, they maintained discipline and the importance of their objective was at mind. Ssang Yong 2014 demonstrates the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps’ responsive amphibious and expeditionary capabilities from the sea. Forward-deployed Marine forces, in conjunction with allies, have the unique ability to provide rapid force deployment for the full range of military operations, specifically in the Pacific region.
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JROTC cadets compete during the 2014 Superintendent’s Cup at Bluffton High School, in Bluffton, S.C., April 11. The event hosted five county high school JROTC units to compete in academia, a physical fitness test, an obstacle course, platoon drill, and color guard.
Beaufort County JROTC provides youth direction Sgt. Marcy Sanchez
Comm/Media Relations Chief
Change. The word can be used in a positive light or paint someone in a bad light. Change is particularly characteristic of adolescents who are seeking to find themselves while dealing with new experiences and opportunities. Positive change is evident though in the more than 200 Beaufort County high school students who were offered the opportunity to challenge themselves during the 2014 Superintendent’s Cup at Bluffton High School in Bluffton, S.C., April 11. The cup consisted of drill, physical fitness and academics competitions between five Beaufort County JROTC units. The event offered cadets the opportunity to compete with each other, testing their leadership and teamwork. “We’re here to compete,” said retired Marine Col. Bob Wallace, the senior Marine instructor at Whale Branch High School. “When they get out on stage they step up and do what their supposed to do and trained to do.”
Wallace, who used to be the commanding officer of the Marine Corps’ Training Command in Quantico, Va., understands what it takes to be a leader and was drawn to the JROTC program because of the opportunities it offered. “I always wanted to work with youth and thought this was an awesome way to do it,” said Wallace, a native of Anthony, Fla. “I take pride in seeing the young men and women develop. That’s what the program is all about, developing leadership.” The growth of character and leadership is one characteristic that Bluffton residents, Darren and Carolyn Potter, first noticed in their son Ethan, a freshman at Bluffton High School who is in his first year with the Army JROTC program the school offers. The Potters spoke about moving from New Jersey to Bluffton and their son changing schools due to the move. “He used to stay in all the time and now is more social,” said Darren. “He’s definitely more grown up. He gets up on his own and goes to school on his own,” mentioned Carolyn,
whose military ties run deep with her father and uncle both serving in the Navy. The Potters want there son to be an honest and respectable person. “He’s on the right path, we’re very proud of him,” said the Potters, who attribute this to Ethan’s JROTc involvement. Other cadets appreciated the lessons learned during their experience with the program. “It’s one of the most demanding programs around, a lot of community service is involved and we try to help out as much as we can,” said Spud Stroud, a senior and second lieutenant with Bluffton High School’s Army JROTC. “We learn a lot about finances, respect and core values that make us better citizens outside of the school. “I’ve noticed a change [in myself ] because before I joined JROTC I was always mouthing off to my dad,” added Sprout, who wants to continue in ROTC once in college. “Through JROTC I learned a lot of discipline, I’m a lot nicer to people now than I was before so it’s helped my character.” Grayson Ammons, a junior
and captain with Bluffton High School’s Army JRTOC felt that the program presented a way to communicate and boost self-esteem. “I moved here from Texas and there was a big change here. People acted different, people talked different and I was always in solitude,” said Ammons. “When I first got here I couldn’t find a program that would help me explore the attributes that I had. By joining JROTC and growing in the ranks I learned to be more confident in myself, learned public speaking, and did volunteer work.” Both Stroud and Ammons agreed that the skills learned and confidence gained led to a desire to improve themselves as much as possible after high school and throughout life. “You see them grow and chew on what you’re teaching and then put it into action, not only in the classroom but in the rest of the school, in public, at restaurants, so you’re changing their lives,” said Wallace. “I want to see them become successful, believe in themselves and be fruitful, productive citizens.”
H&HS pancake breakfast
Cpl. Timothy Norris
One by one Marines and the occasional sailor came to the Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron pancake breakfast at the Airfield operations building aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, April 11. The breakfast, organized by Lisa Montenez, the H&HS family readiness officer, gave squadron members an opportunity to socialize with other sections they normally don’t interact with. Light, fluffy pancakes cooked by volunteers, many of them spouses of Marines with the squadron, were served with an array of toppings, including fresh strawberrys, chocolate chips, whip cream and maple syrup.
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MWSS-273 welcomes new
Cpl. Timothy Norris
Lt. Col James Stone, Marine Wing Support Squadron 273 commanding officer, presents Sgt. Maj. Adrian Tagliere with the sword of office during a post and relief ceremony aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, April 10. Tagliere relieved Sgt. Maj. Paul Davis, who served as the squadron sergeant major for nearly a year.
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WWII POW: Remembering the past Cpl. Sarah Cherry Staff Writer
Retired Staff Sgt. Waldrop, now 91 years old and living in St. Helena Island, S.C., vividly remembers details of his experience during World War II. “Have you ever seen airliners go across with their condensation trails? Can you picture half a thousand four-engine aircraft all leaving a condensation trail?” said retired Staff Sgt. Robert Waldrop, speaking of the aircraft of his former unit, the Eighth Air Force of the Army Air Corps. “It’s an awesome sight; one of the most awesome sights there was.” Such a sight wasn’t rare in those early months of 1944. World War II was in full swing. Eight different days in January and early February saw more than five hundred B17s and B-24s taking off into European skies, with the most being 863 on January 29 leaving for Frankfurt, Germany. A B-17 waist gunner from Fort Wayne, Indiana, he climbed into the plane for his fifth mission headed toward Frankfurt, Germany. He’d been in the Army Air Corps for two years. At the time, the service members were expected to carry out 25 missions before being relieved, with the option to do more. “When you returned from a mission – if you returned – you could have ice cream or a shot of whiskey,” said Waldrop. He said he would get ice cream with some
light teasing from his peers. He deliberately left his service pistol behind. Getting shot down with a firearm was an immediate death sentence by German soldiers. “The guys that’d been flying, they said don’t take that on a mission,” said Waldrop. “You’d think you’d carry it on a mission.” “One of the biggest hazards of flying those missions was the anti-aircraft [weapons] and, of course, the German pilots. They had some good, good pilots and good airplanes,” said Waldrop. The plane is hit, Feb. 4, 1944. “I’ll never forget that date. My boots came off when my chute opened. We couldn’t wear laced-up boots, because your feet would freeze up there,” he said. “[The Germans] probably had binoculars on me the whole way down. They had time to watch me and wait for me.” He landed in German-occupied France, bootless with a sprained ankle. German soldiers quickly found him and detained him as a prisoner of war. “When I first came down, I sprained my left leg real bad,” said Waldrop. “I didn’t break it, thank goodness. But they had to help me, or carry me, or push me.” He was taken to a jail where he said German soldiers would stop by simply to stare at him. “They’d come up to the strong door and look through the window,” he said. “[They must have been thinking] ‘He’s something else, we got a guy, we got an
American!’” During his experience as a prisoner of war, he was transferred from camp to camp on coal ships and trucks, marched for hundreds of miles, and kept in various prison camps. Hygiene conditions were poor, and prisoners were counted daily. “It was a normal routine to take a head count twice a day,” said Waldrop. A German sergeant, previously wounded on the Russian front, would take down the count with pencil and paper. He said they called him ‘Big Stoop’. “Guys in the back row would shift around, so he’d never get the same count twice.” The German soldiers guarding the prisoners would put a stop to the shuffling around and miscounting by fixing bayonets as a threat. During the night, prisoners were locked in with a bar across the door. In the morning, the prisoners would hear the bar being removed. “One morning, one of the guys a couple barracks down pushed on the door and it was open, so he thinks it’s okay to go out. We had one main latrine clear down at the end of the compound. He went clear across to the end of the compound and on the way back, one of the guards shot him,” said Waldrop. “He bled to death is really what happened because nobody could get to him.” The Germans allowed a funeral detail, and despite the lack of an American flag the prisoners made do with what they had.
“Through the Red Cross we had some boxes of colored chalk and some of the guys took the colored chalk and put some rags together and made a flag as best as they could for his funeral,” he said. “It was sad.” Towards the end of the war, the prisoners were moved far and often, marching hundreds of miles. “Some places we stopped close to villages, the civilians would put water out along the street,” said Waldrop. “We couldn’t stop, but as we walked past we would scoop some up in our tins.” Waldrop fell behind with several other prisoners, and was taken to yet another prison camp. They were liberated by British commandos that he said looked like they’d slit your throat if you blinked. The sort you wouldn’t want to see fighting against you. “I was glad they were on our side,” he said. He was given a physical and returned to the United States in a hospital ship. He arrived in New York, and later returned to his hometown of Fort Wayne, Indiana. After leaving military service, Waldrop served in and retired from the police force. Waldrop’s experience and his attitude toward his past are a strong example of perseverance, inner strength and, perhaps most of all, carrying tragedies of the past lightly. “I’ve been so fortunate over the years, really lucky,” he said.
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Clarification given on PTAD Cpl. Sarah Cherry Staff Writer
The circumstances in which Marines may be given permissive temporary assigned duties prior to seperation from the Marine Corps were clarified in Marine Administrative Message 170/14, April 1. The MARADMIN was published in response to an increase in questions regarding the conditions in which PTAD may be granted to Marines separating from the Marine Corps due to the force
drawdown. PTAD is approved at the discretion of the commander, and depends on unit necessities. Marines separating voluntarily or involuntarily with an honorable discharge or general discharge under honorable conditions may be approved for PTAD. Marines in the continental United States can receive up to 20 days PTAD, and others may be approved for up to 30 days PTAD. Other circumstances in which Marines can be approved for PTAD include invol-
untary separation and retirement. To qualify, Marines must either be selected for involuntary separation or release from active duty due to non-selection for promotion, have a mandatory or approved retirement date. Other qualifiers for PTAD include being denied continued service, or having an approved separation for disability with or without severance pay or through force shaping programs. Marines are not eligible if they are completing their normal term of obligated
service or voluntarily resigning their commission. Marines requesting early release outside of the force shaping drawdown or under the end of the year holiday authority program are not eligible. Involuntary discharge due to misconduct or substandard performance also disqualifies a Marine from receiving PTAD. Reservists are not authorized for transition PTAD unless they are in an active duty status and approved for an active duty retirement.
Mobility matters MALS-31 for
Cpl. Sarah Cherry Staff Writer
The low-lying swamps and mountainous jungles of Vietnam made providing aircraft maintenance for forward deployed aircraft and Marines a struggle in the 1950s and 1960s. Without hangars and enclosed working spaces, some more sensitive or delicate repairs were time-consuming or impossible in the field.
Now, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31 and other MALS rely on the mobile maintenance facilities on the van pad to accomplish their daily mission, deployed and in garrison. “We don’t deploy to locations where there are hangars already built and office spaces where we can take all our equipment,” said Kelly. “It’s important for us to be able to be mobile.” Mobile maintenance facilities are similar to small trailers, customized for specific jobs.
“They can be put on an airplane or put on a ship and taken wherever they needed to go,” said Capt. Brian Kelly, officer in charge of avionics for MALS-31. “[Without this capability] it would be impossible for us to deploy the way we deploy now.” This ability allows MALS-31 to rapidly respond to crisis situations to provide necessary intermediate level aviation maintenance. Intermediate level maintenance includes such capabilities as avionics, hydraulics, and airframe maintenance.
Part of the method MALS use to deploy across the Marine Corps includes two merchant ships, SS Wright on the east coast and SS Curtiss on the west coast. Each ship can deploy with over 300 operational mobile maintenance facilities and is indefinitely sustainable. The same deployment using C-17s would require 125 lifts. Marines train biennially to maintain their knowledge on how to load and unload mobile maintenance facilities to and from the ships.
Cpl. Carl Young, a test equipment calibrations technician with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31, troubleshoots a circuit card assembly switching regulator inside a mobile maintenance facility, April 4. Each mobile maintenance facility is tailored to fit the needs of the work section that it houses.
Cpl. Justin Moore, a cable repairman with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31, screws the cover onto a holding fixture after he replaced a radio frequency cable inside a mobile maintenance facility, April 4. The mobile maintenance facilities help MALS across the Marine Corps deploy efficiently to provide aircraft maintenance in virtually any environment.
Lance Cpl. Stephen Trotta, a calibration and repair technician with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31, calibrates a decade resistor, April 4. The decade resistor checks resistance levels against other gear.
Cpl. Brandon Kelsey, a micro-miniature repairman with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31, replaces wires in a left-handed grip assembly inside a mobile maintenance facility, April 4. Mobile maintenance facilities are set up for each specific work center and easily transported.
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