Jet Stream
wtf
The
Friday, August 1, 2014 Vol. 49, No. 30 Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C.
“The noise you hear is the sound of freedom.”
n Entertainment n News Briefs n Weather n Around the Corps n Graduates
2 3 3 10 13
Cast your vote! Page 5
Back to school: What you need to know Page 4
VMFA(AW)-224 returns to Fightertown Page 13
Herschel Walker to visit Air Station
Sgt. Marcy Sanchez Public Affairs Chief
Former NFL icon and mental health advocate, Herschel Walker, is scheduled to speak aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort at the base theater Aug. 5, from 10 a.m. until noon. Walker, who was diagnosed with Dissociative Identity Disorder, will be speaking to service members,
dependents and retirees during his visit in an effort to promote the Patriot Support Program’s AntiStigma Campaign which aims to educate and inform the audience about Depression and other behavioral health issues. “Having a healthy mental state is part of our physical well-being,” said Shari Mattos-Alcorn, head of Tri-Command’s behavioral health branch. “Why go at it alone? We’re
a huge family and there’s help or everything.” The 52-year-old Heisman Trophy recipient has been an advocate for mental well-being since the release of his memoir in 2008, which chronicled Walker’s struggle to come to terms with D.I.D. and seek help. According to Andrew Laning, the divisional director of military programs for the Patriot Support
Programs, Walker is known for his interaction with his audience and support of service members. During his presentation, Walker takes his audience through his journey in life from being bullied during his childhood to using sports as an outlet for his anxiety. “You have to be resilient and take care of yourself,” said Laning. “Overcoming adversity is one of Herschel’s messages during his
presentation.” As a child, Walker grew up with a speech impediment and weight problem. According to several interviews, he realized that if things were going to change they needed to start with him. He trained his speech, body and mind, graduating valedictorian of his high school see
Walker, page 8
Step up: YOU are responsible for stopping sexual assault Cpl. Sarah Cherry Staff Writer
VMFA-122 maintenance Marines make it happen during RIMPAC Lance Cpl. Alissa Schuning
Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni
HONOLULU - In the world of Marine Corps aviation, pilots tend to be superstars of the show, flying jets and dropping bombs, but behind the scenes are the Marines on the ground who make it all possible. Maintenance Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 work day and night, repairing and preparing F/A-18C Hornets for their scheduled flights during Rim of the Pacific Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii.
Rim of the Pacific is a multinational maritime exercise that provides a unique training opportunity which helps participants foster and sustain cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of the sea lanes and security of the world’s oceans. According to Marine 1st Lt. Jeffrey Kennedy, the assistant aviation maintenance officer with VMFA-122, three-fourths of the Marines with VMFA-122 in Hawaii are involved in aviation maintenance. Those Marines inhabit see
Vmfa-122, page 9
New bystander intervention training for sexual assault prevention called Step Up was implemented across the Marine Corps, July 28. The class will be taught by a trained uniformed victim advocate, and will satisfy annual sexual assault prevention and response training for ranks private through lance corporal. “This empowers junior Marines to step up and say something,” said Sharria Johnson, installation sexual assault response coordinator aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. “Until you step up and say no to sexual assault, it is everyone’s problem.” Step Up is interactive video-based training. The goal of Step Up is to facilitate a firm understanding in Marines that stepping in to prevent sexual assault is the responsibility of each and every individual.
“This training gives you a view of how one person’s actions can change one moment and positively or negatively impact someone’s life,” said Johnson. Each class will have no more than 30 Marines to promote group discussion and reduce stigma.
Marines who have completed annual SAPR training or SAPR pre-deployment training in fiscal year 2014 are not required to take Step Up this year. “If you have enough courage to make just a little difference, you can change someone’s life,” said Johnson.
2
The Jet Stream
Games and Entertainment
Friday, August 1, 2014
MCAS Beaufort Movie Schedule
Saturday 2 p.m. G (1:42)
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 (1:29)
Saturday 7 p.m. PG-13 (1:38)
MCRD Parris Island Movie Schedule
Saturday, Sunday and holidays Brunch: 8:30 - 11 a.m. Dinner: 4 - 6 p.m.
Midrats Sunday - Thursday 11:30 p.m. - 1 a.m. Takeout Window Hours: Breakfast - Mon. - Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. Lunch - Mon. - Fri. 12:45 p.m. - 4 p.m. Dinner - Mon. - Fri. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday Dinner Lunch Apple glazed corned Smoked ham and beef and rice cabbage soup Sunday Lunch Dinner Baked fish with butter Pork chops with crumb topping smothered onions
Sunday 2 p.m. PG (1:50)
Sunday 4:30 p.m. PG-13 (1:59)
Summer Word Search Word Bank
Monday - Friday Breakfast Hot farina, hot hominy grits and oven-fried bacon Monday Dinner Lunch Spanish chorizo and Pepper steak and potato soup rosemary potatoes Tuesday Dinner Lunch Bean with bacon Beef with vegetables soup and peas and barley soup Wednesday Dinner Lunch Creole shrimp and Chipotle roasted corn sweet potatoes Thursday Dinner Lunch Salisbury steak and Chicken with rice southern style greens soup and breadsticks
America Flag Freedom Colors Independence Justice Liberty Patriotic Revolution Stars Stripes States Washington Honor Forefathers
Friday Lunch Chicken and cheese enchiladas
Sunday 7 p.m. R (1:26)
Dinner Louisiana seafood gumbo and rice
CHapel serViCes Roman Catholic • 9:30 a.m. - Sunday Mass • Confession takes place before Mass • Confession Monday - Thursday at noon Protestant • 9:45 a.m. - Protestant Church School (Sunday School) • 11 a.m. - Protestant Sunday Worship Service (Children’s church is also available at this time) • 5 p.m. - Wednesday Protestant Bible Study • 5 p.m. - Saturday Worship Service at Laurel Bay Youth Center Buddhist • 11 a.m. - Saturday Worship Service in the Chapel Fellowship Hall Labyrinth Walk • 8 a.m - 4 p.m. - Monday in the Chapel Fellowship Hall Other Faith Groups • For Jewish, Mormon and Islamic support, contact the Chaplain’s Office at 228-7775
Answer key will be available on facebook.com/MCASBeaufort on Aug. 6.
Sudoku
A prayer breakfast is scheduled to take place the first friday of every month at the Air Station Mess Hall. For more information call 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 Aug. 6.
Command Information
The Jet Stream
Tri-Command Weather 7 Day Forecast
Friday, August 1, 2014
3
Did you know... Aug. 3, 1950, eight Corsairs of VMF-214, the famed “Black Sheep” squadron of World War II, launched from the USS Sicily and executed the first Marine aviation mission in the Korean War in a raid against enemy installations near Inchon. After the F4Us delivered their incendiary bombs and rockets on their targets, the Marines concluded their greeting to the Communist troops with a series of strafing runs.
Happenings The Provost Marshal’s Office will be testing the mass notification system, on the first Wednesday of every month at 1 p.m. The test will take place aboard MCAS Beaufort and Laurel Bay. It will announce the following; “This is a test of the Marine Corps mass notification system. This is only a test. Test 5 4 3 2 1. Test out”. It will play twice. These tests are standard drills, and do not require any response. For further information, please contact the physical security section at 2286335.
Forecast according to weather.com
Herschel Walker will be speaking at the Air Station Theater, Aug 5, from 10 a.m. to noon and the MCRD Parris Island Theater from 3 - 5 p.m. about mental illness and substance disorders. Autograph sessions will follow each presentation.
Marine Corps Community Services is holding a Health and Wellness Fair at the Fitness Center aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort at 1000-1300, Aug. 7.
The MCAS Beaufort Pistol Range has cancelled 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.
Effective June 1, MCAS Beaufort will be in Tropical Cyclone Condition V for Hurricane season until Nov. 30. There are currently no threats. This year will be an extremely active season. NOAA is predicting 8-13 named storms, 3-6 hurricanes and 1-2 major hurricanes.
Jet Stream The
Contact us: 228-7225 mcasbeaufort@gmail.com BFRT_JPAO@usmc.mil Commanding Officer MCAS Beaufort Col. Peter D. Buck
Brain Teaser
Public Affairs Officer
Name four days of the week that start with the letter “t”?
Capt. Jordan Cochran
Public Affairs Chief Sgt. Marcy Sanchez
Press Chief
Cpl. John Wilkes
Editor
Cpl. Brendan Roethel
Answer for this week’s brain teaser will be available on facebook.com/MCASBeaufort on Aug. 6.
Leading Marines MCAS Beaufort Chapel
The other day a Marine was in my office checking out. He had successfully completed his enlistment. He had been promoted a few times. He was getting ready to go home and get on with his life. As part of check out I ask what the best part about being a Marine was and what the worst part was. His answer to both questions was the same: leading Marines. This young Marine had a wonderful time leading Marines. It was fun to share what he had learned, to pass on the traditions and the skills to younger Marines. Being a leader builds a person up! But being a leader was also the worst part about being a Marine. Dealing with people who don’t know things, don’t want to learn things was the most frustrating part of his job. Every person who leads other people can understand and nod the head at this one Marine. There is a joy in leadership, a joy in accomplishing the task, training new Marines and being a leader. But it can also be frustrating. Every leader knows what it is like when that leader gives a speech, heads nod, and everyone says, “I got it.” But then the outcome makes it certain that they didn’t get it. Interestingly enough the Apostle Paul addresses this issue in one of his letters. He writes in his first letter to the Thessalonians in Chapter 5: But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Admittedly Paul is talking to church members here, and no Marine wants to talk about love, it is just too mushy, but I think that anyone who is in
charge of leading people can appreciate this short list of duties that Paul gives to Christians. And since the same Apostle in another place (Romans 13:4) calls members of the military “ministers of God” let’s just work our way through this list one by one. Everything Paul says about the one is equally applicable to the other. First we should appreciate that our leaders are people who diligently labor. Another way to say that is all of us should take a moment now and then to realize that our leaders are working hard to accomplish some good things. When was the last time that you took time to realize that the boss really does work hard to do the right thing? Before we criticize and ignore our leaders, and say, “What do they do?” Let’s realize they are working hard. Probably the Marines and Church members who would disrespect someone are not reading this article, but just in case they are, do not disrespect your leaders, whether your leader is a corporal or a colonel, the Chaplain or the President! Appreciate that leadership is hard work. It involves being responsible for people who cannot be responsible for themselves. Leadership involves training up new people to do the job we do now. It involves thinking! Meanwhile, everyone in leadership really should work hard to be good leaders. For a pastor or a Chaplain the real work of ministry is hard, for a corporal or a sergeant the real work of leadership is hard. For any senior leader it is almost indescribably hard. Most of the work that our bosses do we do not see, but it has to happen for us to do our jobs. And yes, a word to leaders here: work hard! Don’t be the person sitting in the office with your feet up snoozing when you ought to be planning the next work project. Each
of us who are leaders knows someone who doesn’t really lead, but I bet most of our leaders are working harder than we know. The word that Paul uses in Greek means to “toil, strive, struggle and to grow weary in doing so.” True leadership is exhausting. Ask our Marine who was getting out of the Corps! Look at any President after four or eight years in office. They look like they have aged a decade or two. Second, our leaders people who have charge over us. They are responsible for us. In this highly individualized climate we may not like that, but it is true. Their chief characteristic is that they should be unpretentious, or humble, words that Marines don’t often use, but we know when we meet an arrogant person who is just itching to throw someone under the bus or stab them in the back that they are not leaders. A real leader carries authority. When things are hard, a leader goes first. They have to manage things, just like a parent running a household. We may not like that, but somebody has to be in charge. Third, they give us instruction, or even a stronger word, they admonish us. I have seen enough Gunny’s giving admonishment to junior Marines to know that you don’t need many words on this topic. Leaders sometimes have to do some verbal counseling, or even written counseling. That is ok, it is part of the job. We need to hear that counsel, and leaders need to give it. We need to hold our leaders in high regard, even when they tear us up! They are only doing it to keep us safe and help us grow. Let me thank every leader on this base. Whether you are a leader on the flight line, or in an office, the chapel or at home, keep it up. Do not become weary in well doing.
Staff Writer
Cpl. Sarah Cherry
twitter.com/MCASBeaufortSC
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. 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.
4
The Jet Stream
In Other News
Friday, August 1, 2014
Laurel Bay Schools Meet & Greet SY 2014-2015
Pre-K Students The first day of school for students in Pre-K is Thursday, August 28th. Your child’s teacher will be contacting you beginning August 14th to set up a time for a home visit for you and your child. You will find out at this time which session your child will be placed in. Grades Kindergarten-Eighth The first day of school for students in Kindergarten-Eighth grade is Thursday, August 14th. On Wednesday, August 13th, you and your child are invited to come to school (see times below) for Meet & Greet. You and your child will be able to visit the classroom and meet the teacher. We hope you will be able to attend. Elliott & Galer ES Bolden ES
(K-2nd) (3rd-5th)
2:00-3:00 1:00-2:00
Meet & Greet Meet & Greet
(Introduction of teachers, visit of classrooms, and meeting of families)
*Kindergarten Students-Kindergarten will be from 7:55-11:30 from August 14-August 20. Lunch will be served during this week. Classroom Teacher Assignments will be posted on Wednesday, August 13th prior to the “Meet Your Teacher” for Kindergarten-Fifth Grades. Please do not call the school office for this information in advance. We look forward to seeing you and your child soon. REMINDER School Hours for SY 14-15 K-8th 7:55-2:30 AM PreK 7:55-10:30 PM PreK 11:55-2:30 1:30 Early Release the 1st Tuesday of each month
Start the school year off right Cpl. John Wilkes Press Chief
The new school year is fast approaching. As the first day of school nears and parents begin checking off their to-do list, Kim Wiley, the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort school liaison officer, encourages parents to think about more than school supplies, uniforms and a good night’s sleep.
According to Wiley, staying involved in your child’s education is paramount. That means communicating with your child’s teacher and other staff, knowing what is expected of them, volunteering at school when possible and asking for help when needed. “No matter what age your child is, it is important to be involved in [their] education,” Wiley said. “The value you place on education sets
the standard for their future.” Parents are also encouraged to attend the meet the teacher sessions that most schools hold. These sessions help ease children into the new year and provide parents with valuable information. “It’s important that your child is involved,” said Wiley. “Your child should know how they are getting to and from school, if they are packing or buying a lunch and
where their classroom is located.” Parents are reminded that a smooth transition from summer to a structured academic setting, all boils down to discipline and balance. Assisting with academic skill development at home is also a key component to scholastic success. “Read to or with your child for 20 minutes daily and help your child develop organizational skills that
work for them,” Wiley said. “Establish a schedule for your children that offers time for homework, extracurricular activities and time to just be a child,” Smith said. The new school year aboard Laurel Bay begins August 14. For more information call 228-6128 or visit the Back to School Information Fair on Aug. 7 from 4 – 6 p.m. at Irby’s Inn aboard MCAS Beaufort.
The Jet Stream
In Other News
Friday, August 1, 2014
5
Primary elections: cast your vote Cpl. Sarah Cherry Staff Writer
With the general election for presidency fast approaching, just under half of the states have yet to hold primary elections. Primary elections allow voters to choose candidates for president. They came about as a way to give citizens more power in choosing who runs in the general election. “As Marines, we’re fighting for and defending the right to vote,” said 1st Lt. Sebryna Flugrath, installation voting officer for Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. “That is one of the only ways we choose who is in charge of us. You don’t get to
decide who the commanding officer and commandant are, but you do get to decide who represents you.” There are four types of primaries; closed, open, semi-open, and runoff. Closed primaries allow only registered members of a party to vote for its candidate. In open and semi-open primaries, anyone can vote regardless of party, but semiopen primaries limit voters to one single primary, requiring them to declare which party they intend to vote for. Run-off primaries allow voters to select one of the two highest candidates in a second primary election.
“If you wait until the last election and don’t vote in the primaries, you don’t have a voice until that last minute,” said Flugrath. States with primary elections from late July through the end of August are Alaska, Arizona, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Tennessee, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. To find your state registration and primary dates, visit http://www.ncsl.org/ research/elections-and-campaigns/2014state-primary-dates-and-runoff.aspx The general election this year will be held Nov. 4.
6
The Jet Stream
Friday, August 1, 2014
In Other News
Civilian Marines hold Quarterly Assembly
Photo by Sgt. Marcy Sanchez
Civilian Marines aboard the Air Station held a Quarterly Civilian Marine Assembly to welcome new employees, recognize accomplishments and offer the MCAS Beaufort commanding officer, Col. Peter Buck, an opportunity to speak to the Air Station civilian workforce. After the welcoming and presentations the group received a tour of Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 and witnessed F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters landing and refueling. The purpose of the assembly is to build espirit de corps, welcome new employees, recognize accomplishments and conduct professional training to the civilian Marine community.
Classifieds
The Jet Stream
Friday, August 1, 2014
7
8
The Jet Stream
More Of The Story
Friday, August 1, 2014
WALKER continued from page 1
class and receiving a full football scholarship to the University of Georgia. Walker was awarded the Heisman trophy for his performance at UGA and went on to play professionally. After retiring in 1997, Walker noticed changes in his behavior. “When you start wearing a hat - that you wear this red hat for football, you wear the white hat for home, you wear the blue hat
for work. But all of a sudden when you leave home, you put on the red hat; you put it on at home. The hat’s all screwed up. So now, that aggressive nature that you had in football is now at home because you put on the wrong hat,” said Walker. “I was out of the game. I had been out of the game for about four years and I developed this anger problem, not that I developed it, it just manifested itself a little more severe.” After severe problems in his marriage, Walker sought help and began the healing process.
Walker’s approach to mental illness is a testimony to the Tri-Command Behavioral Health Branch’s approach to service members. “People would be really surprised if they realized how many people utilized our services,” said Mattos-Alcorn. “We know now that our minds are tied to our body, counseling or talk therapy are an effective way to help.” According to the Patriot Support Program, Walker has visited numerous military installations and shared his story to thousands of service members and families while making in-
dividual visits to wounded service members in the hospital. The Behavioral Health Branch’s Community Counseling Program was stood up in 2013. The program increases the collaboration of the branch with other organizations such as the Military & Family Life Counseling Program and base chaplains. “It’s a very beneficial service and it’s provided here,” said Mattosalcorn. “They should not feel a stigma and if they do we should know about it.” For more information visit www.mccs-sc. com
More Of The Story VMFA-122 continued from page 1
eight shops: maintenance control, quality assurance, flight equipment, ordnance, powerline, maintenance administration, seat shop and airframes. “Each shop plays an important role in getting the jets up in the air,” said Kennedy. “Without every one of them doing their job, the pilots can’t fly.” The squadron’s F/A-18C Hornets, ap-
The Jet Stream
proximately three decades old, require roughly 15 hours of maintenance for every hour they are in the air, said Kennedy. “The maintenance time fluctuates, but 15 hours is a relatively low number,” said Kennedy. “The older the jet, the more maintenance that has to be done and the more complicated it becomes.” Routine maintenance is the Marines’ day-to-day job and that is exactly how they look at it, explained Kennedy. “An error made by someone in aviation maintenance could be disastrous,” said
Kennedy. “Any error could end in loss of aircraft or loss of life.” According to Marine Sgt. Michael Lincourt, a safety equipment mechanic with VMFA-122, the slightest error could have dire consequences, so maintainers have to stay focused on the job at hand. “By the book maintenance is what we live by,” said Lincourt, who works in the seat shop. “Thinking about what could go wrong while working on an aircraft can make a Marine nervous and that is when errors are more likely to be made.”
Friday, August 1, 2014
9
Kennedy said there is a certain amount of trust pilots put into the Marines maintaining their jets. Pilots have to trust that the Marine Corps trained the most qualified Marines who get their jobs done quickly and safely. “As a pilot, you put your life in the hands of the maintainers and without them, you aren’t flying,” said Marine Capt. Cody P. Buras, an F/A-18C Hornet pilot with VMFA-122. “These Marines work so hard, do a great job, and give me an amazing and trustworthy aircraft to fly.”
Lance Cpl. Shailyn Grant, an aircraft communication/navigation systems technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, works on an F/A-18C Hornet aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii July 21, 2014. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 is in Hawaii for Rim of the Pacific Exercise 2014, a multinational maritime exercise that provides a unique training opportunity, which helps participants foster and sustain cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of the sea lanes and security of the world’s oceans.
10
The Jet Stream
Around The Corps
Friday, August 1, 2014
Corps Bits
Working dog, handler prove useful in Afghanistan CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan -Improvised explosive devices remain a major threat to Marines conducting security patrols in Helmand province. To help mitigate the threat, workingdog handlers and IED detection dogs are used to find possible IEDs before Marines get too close. “I use Vito to search anything from roads and open areas to vehicles and buildings for IEDs or explosive chemicals,” said Cpl. Taylor Cross, a workingdog handler with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment. As Marines patrol around buildings and compounds, Vito is always in the lead, sniffing around corners and alongside roadways clearing the route ahead. Cross and the other Marines in the unit rely on Vito’s keen sense of smell for ensuring a safe route while conducting security operations. “It is very humbling knowing that the guys I work with, along with myself, rely on Vito to keep us safe,” said Cross, a 21-year-old native of Cedar Falls, Iowa. Vito, a 6-year-old purebred black lab, is trained to detect explosive material, both military and homemade. During two months of pre-deployment training, Cross and Vito became a part of the battalion. “The pre-workup training went very well,” said Cross. “I was able to integrate Vito into the unit and get him used to being and working alongside the Marines. Throughout the traininging exercise, it was amazing to see Vito’s detecting capabilities and potential to save lives in Afghanistan.” Cross and Vito deployed to Afghanistan together from Twentynine Palms, California, during March 2014. “Vito has a hardheaded personality, but after working with him for such a long time, he learned to trust me and I learned to trust him and his judgment,” said Cross. “Working with Vito has been a great learning experience . After taking care of him since the beginning of our deployment, he is more than just a working dog to me, he is a part of my life. I love Vito.”
Lance Cpl. Jordan Pettid, a mortarman with Charley Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, adjusts the sight on an M252 81mm mortar system during an operation in Helmand province, Afghanistan, July 19. During the two-day operation, Marines with Charley Co. watched over nearby routes close to Camp Dwyer and the surrounding area to help mitigate enemy insurgents smuggling small arms weapons and explosive material through the area.
Marines, sailors with Charlie Company ensure Camp Dwyer’s safety in Helmand province
Cpl. Cody Haas Marine Expeditionary Brigade - Afghanistan
CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan -- Improvised explosive devices and small arms fire from insurgents remain a threat to units patrolling in Helmand province. Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, conducted an operation near commonly traveled routes near Camp Dwyer and the surrounding area in Helmand province, Afghanistan, July 19-20. Insurgents have been known to use heavily traveled routes to carry small arms weapons and explosive materials throughout Afghanistan to use against Afghan and coalition forces. “The operation gave enemy insurgents in the area a clear presence of our manpower and capability,” said Lance Cpl. Mike Reams, a machine gunner with Charlie Co. “The routes we covered were the main areas where insurgents have been
seen recently.” Marines with Charlie Co. used MineResistant Ambush Protected vehicles during the operation for added protection against IEDs as well as small arms fire. They convoyed approximately two hours to the area of operation in Helmand province. “The mission was a success because we were able to employ the (M252) 81mm mortar system with illumination rounds to deny the enemy the freedom of movement, hindering them from transporting weapons and narcotics on nearby routes,” said Staff Sgt. Carl Therrien, a platoon sergeant with Weapons Platoon, Charlie Co. A mortar illumination round is a type of ammunition that when fired, burns a bright flame carried by a parachute, which is able to light up approximately six square kilometers. With illumination rounds constantly fired throughout the night, machine gunners in MRAPs watched over a nearby route for any suspicious activity.
“As a machine gunner, it is my responsibility to be able to determine what is happening around me and the convoy to determine if there is a threat in the area,” said Reams, a native of Kansas City, Missouri. “Enemy insurgents tend to blend in with the local population living in villages near Camp Dwyer, so it is important for us to gain trust with the locals by letting them know why we are operating outside of their villages.” Charlie Co. Marines deployed to Helmand province, Afghanistan, during February from Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. Although few in number, the leadership quality is high within the company. “(Noncommissioned Officers) of Charlie Co. are some of the best NCOs in the battalion,” said Therrien, a native of Seminole, Oklahoma. “Their drive and determination to complete any mission places them above all others. They make this company run.”
1st MLG tests ship-to-ship connector USNS MILLINOCKET, LONG BEACH AND CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – Marines with Headquarters Regiment, 1st Marine Logistics Group, participated in the testing of an emerging seabasing capability, using the Joint High Speed Vessel and the Mobile Landing Platform, aboard the US Naval Ship Millinocket off the coast of Long Beach, Calif., June 24 and off of Landing Craft Air Cushions, July 9. The Mobile Landing Platform is a new type of Maritime Pre-Positioning Ship that facilitates the transfer of military equipment and personnel from large ships to ship-to-shore connectors. Seabasing is a naval capability that provides commanders the ability to organize and employ forces and equipment from ship-to-shore, entirely at sea. The MLP used in this testing was the USNS Montford Point. The concept of seabasing has been around for more than 30 years but the testing of MLP specific capabilities dates back to 2003 and is slated to be used during Rim of the Pacific 2014, the world’s largest multi-national maritime exercise. More recently, the embarkation specialists guided amphibious assault vehicles off of Landing Craft Air Cushion onto the ship. Practicing both techniques allowed the Marines to explore the MLP’s full range of capabilitie At the end of the exercise, the seabasing concept was validated, something Borns has waited almost 10 years to see. With the success of this testing, the USNS Montford Point will be used for a full-scale test in October. Unlike the recent testing, which validated only the first steps in a reconstitution at sea, the testing in October will cover the complete concept of moving gear from a large ship to the MLP, from the MLP to a small landing craft and then straight to shore.
An illumination round fired from an M252 81mm mortar system lights up the night during an operation conducted by Charley Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, in Helmand province, Afghanistan, July 19. During the two-day operation, Marines with Charley Co. watched over nearby routes close to Camp Dwyer and the surrounding area to help mitigate enemy insurgents smuggling small arms weapons and explosive material through the area.
Corps Shot Cpl. Todd Mickalek
CAMP LEJEUNE, North Carolina -- A Marine with Lima Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, controls a simulated detainee during a nighttime raid exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 27.
The Jet Stream
Around The Corps
VMFA-115 Silver Eagles
MALS-31 Stingers a detachment is currently deployed to the Western Pacific supporting VMFA-115 and VMFA-122.
are currently deployed to the Western Pacific as part of the Unit Deployment Program.
VMFA-122 Werewolves
Marines test tomorrow’s concepts today at RIMPAC
are currently deployed to the Western Pacific as part of the Unit Deployment Program.
Photo by Cpl. Dan Hosack
Rear Adm. Brent Scott, chaplain of the Marine Corps, has his rank insignia pinned on by his family during a ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., July 25. Scott is the 19th chaplain of the Marine Corps.
Commandant promotes new chaplain of the Marine Corps Marine Barracks Washington
WASHINGTON -- Capt. Brent W. Scott was promoted to the rank of rear admiral by the commandant of the Marine Corps and assumed his duties as 19th chaplain of the Marine Corps/deputy chief of Navy chaplains at Marine Barracks Washington, July 25. During his remarks, Gen. James Amos, Commandant of the Marine Corps, welcomed Scott back to the Marine Corps after serving as battalion chaplain with 3rd Marine Air Wing in Yuma, Arizona early in his career. Amos also acknowledged Scott’s ministry to Marines as staff chaplain at Naval Station Rota and later as command chaplain on USS Ronald Reagan. As the senior Navy chaplain serving
in the Marine Corps, Scott will oversee nearly 300 chaplains and 250 religious program specialists currently supporting the spiritual needs of Marines. He will also serve as a key advisor to the commandant on religious accommodation, morals and ethics, and the spiritual welfare of the force. Rear Adm. Margaret G. Kibben, outgoing chaplain of the Marine Corps, shared her enthusiasm for her successor. “Brent Scott brings with him a wealth of experience to this new role. He is just as passionate and concerned for the welfare of our people, and he shares my love and admiration of our Marines,” said Kibben. During her remarks, she shared the importance of Scott’s position, “as an extension of the commandant but,
more importantly, an extension of God…an opportunity to be the witness and the presence of God wherever you go.” Scott has more than 22 years of service as a Navy chaplain ministering to those in the Navy and Marine Corps. He went on to pledge to Amos that the chaplains and RPs currently serving him “will keep faith with [his] Marines, doing right by them and doing right for them…more than supporting them in the fight, but helping them finish the course.” “We will not only keep faith with your Marines. We will keep your Marines in faith—in their personal faith. That is our most sacred trust, as chaplains…to nurture every capable Marine in a faith and a reliance upon someone who is greater than themselves,” said Scott.
Turret gunners of Combat Logistics Battalion 7 keep convoy safe Sgt. Frances Johnson Marine Expeditionary Force
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan -- While most aboard Camp Leatherneck were eating breakfast as the early morning sun began burning the earth in a golden heat wave, turret gunners of Combat Logistics Battalion 7 were already mounting .50 caliber and M240B machine guns inside the turrets of their vehicles, preparing for one of the battalion’s last missions, July 14. The gunners and the rest of the Marines from CLB-7 were at work for a few hours ensuring that they as well as all of their gear were ready for another trip outside the wire to Patrol Base Boldak. “They’re the eyes and ears,” said 1st Lt. Andrew Gerdes, platoon commander of 1st Platoon with CLB-7. “They’re the muscle, making sure that everybody is safe. If anything happens they can talk to their (vehicle commanders) and the VCs can talk to myself or my staff sergeant, so we can make decisions.” “Being a gunner, it’s the best part of the convoy,” said Lance Cpl. Timothy Murphy, turret gunner, CLB-7 and a 21-year-old native of Auburn, New York. “Everyone gets nervous, but the training we did before we came out here helped a lot.” As the trucks and Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles’ dust kicks up, nerves can be as sharp as the concertina wire surrounding the base. The turret gunners tighten the harness on their emotions to stay alert for their mission. “Right before we’re about to depart friendly lines I feel like there’s a different
11
Corps Bits
Fightertown deployed:
Christianne M. Witten
Friday, August 1, 2014
mindset that comes, and I’m closer to the people that I’ve worked with over a year now,” said Cpl. Alex Roberts, a turret gunner and weapons noncommissioned officer with CLB-7. “My gunners, to me, are my little brothers, but I just want them to be safe out there. We just have this special bond.” “I’m always on the lookout for anything suspicious and report it up,” said Cpl. Jose Orozco, a turret gunner with CLB-7. “If we hear or see anything, we report it up immediately to the vehicle commanders. Through fair and unfavorable weather, the turret gunners are able to experi-
ence their deployment from a different point of view and observe life around them as they feel every bump, dip and curve in the Afghan roads that seem to feel more like the path less traveled. “I’m glad I could experience all of this,” said Roberts. “It’s really a new way to see everything. We get to see not just the people, but a different culture and the way they act and just how they live.” As the Marines of CLB-7 and CLB-1 completed their mission aboard PB Boldak, the gunners once again took the honor of gearing up to watch over their fellow brothers and sisters for the trip back to Camp Leatherneck.
Corporal Alex Roberts, a turret gunner and weapons noncommissioned officer with Combat Logistics Battalion 7, makes final adjustments to his M240B machine gun in the turret of his Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, July 14. Roberts, a native of Dunnellon, Fla., and his fellow turret gunners with CLB-7 act as the eyes and ears while being the guardian angels of each combat logistics patrol conducted during their deployment.
FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Maryland -- The Marine Corps Warfghting Laboratory, headquartered at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, conducted their Advanced Warfighting Experiment during the 24th iteration of the Rim of the Pacific Exercise, the world’s largest international maritime exercise, hosted in Hawaii. “It is an opportunity to step outside of research and get into the field and find benefits, weaknesses and new capabilities of new tactics and technology,” said Marine Lt. Col. Charles Berry, the officer in charge of the experiment. “The experiment culminates more than a decade of hard work to create a more effective [Marine Air Ground Task Force].” Berry works the branch head of the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab Field Test Branch to provide training on and collect data about developing projects. He and those under his charge identify functional gaps and new capabilities for Marines to improve Marine Corps tactical ability. “It is kind of like [science fiction] working with experimental technology,” said Lance Cpl. Brandon Diekmann, an infantryman with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment. “I never thought as young lance corporal in the infantry, I would to get to work with something like this.” Legged Squad Support, Foot Mobile Charger, Ground Unmanned Support Surrogate Foot Mobile Charger, Tele-medicine, Marine Air Ground Task Force Enabler-Light, universal tactical robotic controller, Hybrid Energy Internally Transportable Vehicle Trailer. The technology tested during the experiment meets many of the needs of the Marine Corps’ future, which requires the Corps to be a self-sustaining, light, rapid responding modern force. The Corps stands at the edge of a new era, a future built on getting back to its amphibious roots and capabilities, which has been the deciding factor for many of America’s battles.
3/3, ROK Marines conduct sea-based operation KAHUKU TRAINING AREA, Hawaii -- U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, teamed up with Republic of Korea Marines and attachments from the New Zealand Army to conduct a simulated assault on opposing forces provided by 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment at Kahuku Training Area, Hawaii, July 11, as part of the 2014 Rim of the Pacific exercise. Held every two years, RIMPAC is the world’s largest international maritime exercise. The exercise provides a unique training opportunity that strengthens international maritime partnerships, enhances interoperability and improves the readiness of participating forces for a wide range of potential operations. Units from participating nations were attached to Company Landing Team 1 to conduct training at KTA to implement sea-based support and field test developing technologies during the Advanced Warfighting Experiment with the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab. The troops’ objective for the day was to neutralize simulated enemy forces played by U.S. Marines from Kilo Company, 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines. The company’s first objective was to maneuver up and through a winding and densely-vegetated hill where opposing forces kept a foothold close to CLT-1. “(The opposing force’s) primary goal is to create situations that make it as difficult as possible for the exercise forces to operate in,” said 1st Lt. Sean Rutherford, platoon commander for Alpha Battery, 1st Bn., 12th Marines, and the opposing forces controller for the Advanced Warfighting Experiment. Marines with second platoon, India Co., 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines guided the ROK Marines through the terrain to assault Radio Hill to occupy the space and conduct follow-on patrol base operations from there. Once the ROK Marines made contact with opposing forces and eliminated the simulated threat, they immediately provided medical aid to the downed enemy combatants until Navy corpsmen arrived at the scene with the remainder of second platoon. Once on scene, the corpsmen employed Tactical Tele-Medicine, an experimental technology that transmitted vital signs, photos and videos to the Shock Trauma Section at CLT-1’s command operations center. Tactical Tele-Medicine is part of the Advanced Warfighting Experiment portion of RIMPAC, conducted by the MCWL.
12
The Jet Stream
Friday, August 1, 2014
Classifieds
In Other News
The Jet Stream
Friday, August 1, 2014
13
Welcome Home
Photos by Cpl. John Wilkes
Cpl. John Wilkes Press Chief
Education and knowledge are not just highly valued in the workplace, they also help strengthen our nation’s communities and economy. Because of the importance of education, the Marine Corps makes sure every Marine has the ability to pursue their educational goals. As a service member, most, if not all education expenses may be paid for by the federal government through programs like Tuition Assistance and the Post 9-11 GI Bill. The most common way to pay the remaining expenses is to apply for scholarships. The first step in acquiring a college education is to visit the education office, said David Ellard, Marine Corps Community Services education services officer. Prospective students will meet with an education service specialist to explore the different options available to them.
After a visit to the education office, the service member completes an application for tuition assistance, which must be signed by the Marines’ chain of command and brought back to the education office. When the Marine has selected which classes he or she will be taking, the tuition assistance form can be sent to the college for payment. Tuition assistance covers up to $250 per semester hour and up to $4500 per fiscal year for college tuition and fees. Tuition assistance covers costs for tuition and fees for any postsecondary education, from vocational certifications to graduate studies. Service members are required to take courses that lead to a higher degree than they possess. The qualities that make a successful Marine are similar to those that make a successful college student: discipline, drive, intelligence, perseverance and a willingness to learn. To learn more visit www.mccs-sc.com/lifelong/ index.asp or contact the education office at 2287474.
14
The Jet Stream
Friday, August 1, 2014
Classifieds