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 Name: Cpl. Quincy J. Reynolds
Unit: Command Element
Home Town: Baltimore, Md.
Job Title: 3521, Diesel Mechanic
Why did you want to join the Marine Corps?
“Before I joined the Marine Corps I was a Mail-Man. On my rout I would deliver to an Air Force base nearby. I would see these guys in desert utilities that looked different from the rest and thought their uniforms were sharp looking. I got to speaking with them and decided that I wanted to join. I thought to myself, well I’m not getting any younger and I didn’t want to have any regrets. So far I have had a lot of good experiences in the Marine Corps. I’m so grateful that I was able to go on two MEU’s, I have been able to travel and see the world in a way that many people don’t get to do.”
What do you do here on ship?
“For the MEU I do a lot of different things. I am a diesel mechanic by trade, but I am part of the unit movement control center (UMCC). I track all the convoys and logistics leaving the ship when we are conducting operations. At sea I monitor all the fight operations as well. However, this is my second deployment with the MEU. On my last deployment I was a motor transportation mechanic, I would go out with different units and fix anything that broke down."
What are some of the things you do here on ship to pass the time?
“Well, on the time that I do have off, I help out the other Marines by cutting their hair. Even though we are out at sea, it is still important to keep up with standards.”
How did you learn to cut hair?
"I came down to the barber shop one day and I was watching a Marine cut hair, I just figured I could cut hair myself. So I got some clippers and just started to practice on anybody who was willing to get their hair cut. I like to help out the other Marines. To me cutting hair is relaxing. It breaks up the monotony on ship."
Photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina It's clean up time for USS Boxer as Marines and Sailors spend time sweeping and 'police calling' the 844ft-long flight-deck. During a recent port visit, the ship's deck was sand blasted to strip parts off the the old deck surface and repaired with new 'non-skid' material. The sandblasting the process left residue on the deck that could potentially be harmful for aircraft aboard the ship. The following photos are a few images of the hard work service members put in to keep operations going.
 Lance Cpl. Phillip A. Fowler, from Nacogdoches, Texas, scout team leader with Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, runs down a hill during live-fire exercise in the Middle East. The training refined and refreshed the Marines’ fire and maneuvering skills, fire movement and combat marksmanship skills.
 Petty Officer 3rd Class Peter T. Wells, from Copperas Cove, Texas, corpsman with Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares to load a rocket during a live-fire exercise in the Middle East. The training refined and refreshed the Marines’ fire and maneuvering skills, fire movement and combat marksmanship skills.
 Petty Officer 3rd Class Peter T. Wells, from Copperas Cove, Texas, corpsman with Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares to load a rocket during a live-fire exercise in the Middle East. The training refined and refreshed the Marines’ fire and maneuvering skills, fire movement and combat marksmanship skills.
 Lance Cpl. Kevin P. Herron, a Checotah, Okla. native and fire team leader with Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon, shouts out commands to his fire team during a live-fire exercise in the Middle East. The training refined and refreshed the Marines’ fire and maneuvering skills, fire movement and combat marksmanship skills.
 Corporal Brady L. Gossett, scout team leader from Warrenton, Mo., and Lance Cpl. Curtis Shirey, scout and Flint, Mich. native, both with Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, assembles an M82A1 Special Application Scoped Rifle (SASR) during a marksmanship portion of their training in the Middle East. The training refined and refreshed the Marines’ fire and maneuvering skills, fire movement and combat marksmanship skills.
 Sergeant DeAndray L. Dyer, from Kalamazoo, Mich., vehicle commander with Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, spots his gunner as he shoots a 25 millimeter chain gun round down range during a training exercise in the Middle East. The training refined and refreshed the Marines’ fire and maneuvering skills, fire movement and combat marksmanship skills.
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Monday, June 8, 2009
Story and photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina
 When Marines conduct convoy operations their equipment must be dependable for the mission’s success. One Marine who does his part in keeping the convoys running is Cpl. Jesse M. Sheriff, motor transportation mechanic attached to Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit.
“I follow convoys with my contact truck just in case their vehicles break down,” said Sheriff, from Coggon, Iowa. “My main priority is to make sure the vehicles are up for the mission.”
During Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise (MEUEX) near Camp Lemonier Djibouti, May 19-26, ship-to-shore operations were conducted to strengthen Navy and Marine Corps amphibious capabilities in unfamiliar terrain and included service members from USS New Orleans (LPD 18), USS Comstock (LSD 45) and 13th MEU.
Sheriff said on this mission he was in charge of maintaining three companies worth of humvees, which
equals about 40-to-50 vehicles under his charge.
“On our first day of operations we conducted a road march to break in our vehicles—the good thing was that we had Sheriff and his team out here from maintenance,” said Staff Sgt. Steven E. Williams, from Alton, Ill., platoon sergeant for Weapons Company. “They know exactly what’s wrong with them. It’s hard to tell if there is something wrong with our vehicles if they are just sitting on the ship.”
Sheriff got his first experiences with fixing cars at a young age.
“When I joined I wanted to be a mechanic, I have been working on cars ever since I could remember. My dad had me working with him on cars and my grandpa was also the same way,” said Sheriff. “We would always buy junk cars, fix them up and sell them, it was something that I got into and enjoyed.”
 Sheriff says getting dirty is the best part of his job. He is not the type of person to just sit around and wait for something to go wrong with a truck. He likes to stay active and prevent things before they become a real problem.
“I like to be able to meet the Marines, whose vehicles I work on, to help them understand the importance of preventative maintenance and answer any questions they might have,” said Sheriff. “I guess you could say I’m like the neutral Marine that everybody comes to when they need help.”
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Photos of the Week
Photos by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
 Sergeant Scott D. Schamber, a Green River, Wyo., native and aerial observer with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 163 (Reinforced), 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, keeps a close eye on the ground as the UH-1Y Huey conducts flight operations June 3.
 Members of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 163 (Reinforced), 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, maneuver a UH-1Y Huey in order to load ammunition safely to conduct flight operations June 3.
 Sergeant Scott D. Schamber, a Green River, Wyo., native and aerial observer with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 163 (Reinforced), 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, keeps a close eye on the ground as the UH-1Y Huey conducts flight operations June 3.
 Sergeants Anthony J. Petro and Bradford W. Jungers, snipers with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, walk back to ship after spending the day in a UH-1Y Huey conducting sniper June 3.
 Sergeant Bradford W. Jungers, a San Diego native and sniper with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, sights in from inside a UH-1Y Huey during sniper training June 3.
 Sergeants Dustin J. Benoit and David L. Cahill, Jr., both members of Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, carry the last of their diving equipment from USS Boxer (LHD 4) to stage on the pier in preparation for dive training while USS Boxer is at a port in the Middle East for a scheduled agricultural wash down June 1.
 Sergeant David L. Cahill Jr., a Mayview, Mo. native and special equipment non-commissioned officer with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), jumps into the water with fellow Marines during dive training while USS Boxer (LHD 4) is at a port in the Middle East for a scheduled agricultural wash down June 1.
Story and photo by HMC (FMF) Barry N. Floyd
After many months of hard work and dedication, seven sailors aboard USS Comstock (LSD 45) were awarded the coveted Fleet Marine Force (FMF) Enlisted Warfare Specialist Insignia, May 15th.
This qualification insignia of the United States Navy can be earned by enlisted members of the Navy assigned to the Fleet Marine Force of the Marine Corps who complete the required steps of the program.
This program, or the Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Warfare Specialist (EFMFWS) Program, involves passing a written test and oral test, spending one year with a Marine Corps unit, passing the Marine Corps physical fitness test and demonstrating the knowledge of breaking down weapons, land navigation, and combat communications.
The Corpsman aboard USS Comstock have constantly been pushing themselves and each other throughout pre-deployment work-ups and participating in theater security cooperation (TSC) exercises while deployed.
To wear the insignia shows that determination, hard work and teamwork are still important in reaching their goal.
They would like to say thank you to the following personnel that assisted with the selection board: CDMMC (SW/FMF) Kel Carter, HMCM (SW/FMF) Phil Nafus, HMC (FMF) Barry N Floyd, HM1 (FMF/SW/PJ) Reggie Demapelis, HM1 (SW/FMF) Jennifer Bowman, HM2 (FMF) Richie Secody, HM2 (SW/FMF) Jayson Lazaro.
From left to right: HN (FMF) Langsteiner, HM3 (FMF) Sansone, HM3 (FMF) Griffith, HM2 (FMF) Bumbard, HMC (FMF) Floyd, HN (FMF) Mielcarek, HM1 (FMF/SW) Gundino, HM1 (SW/FMF) Bowman and HMCM (SW/FMF) Carter. Kneeling: HM2 (FMF) Secody
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
 A small group of Marines with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 163 (Reinforced), 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, spend most of their days out on the flight deck of USS Boxer (LHD 4) conducting maintenance on AH-1W Super Cobras and UH-1Y Hueys, referred to as skids.
These Marines, known as the “Skid Kidz”, are all H-1 flightline mechanics and are constantly repairing and maintaining the skids to keep them prepared for flights at a moment’s notice.
“They are the backbone of the squadron,” said Staff Sgt. Andrew E. Caline, a Chino Hills, Calif. native and AV-8B Harrier powerline division chief, with HMM-163 (Rein.).
Caline says that the skids are a vital part of the 13th MEU’s operations and these flightline Marines are the main reason why the aircraft are able to perform.
Flightline Marines are responsible for cleaning the aircraft and freeing the skids of rust. Their day is full of inspections, both pre-flight and post, as well as repairing and maintaining the aircraft. 
“We take pride in our aircraft, when you see the orange rust on it, that’s not good,” said Sgt. Thomas J. Campbell, a Linwood, N.C. native and H-1 flightline mechanic with HMM-163 (Rein.).
Handling every major piece of equipment inside the aircraft, these Marines have no room for error. If they pass over any small discrepancy, it could easily cause an aircraft to malfunction.
Campbell says that pilots perform pre-flight inspections to look over the aircraft and give a second pair of eyes to catch anything that may have been overlooked, but the flightline Marines are the last to look at the aircraft before it flies.
“My favorite part of this job is to be able to take a major piece of equipment, like the engine out, repair it, put it back and watch the bird fly,” said Campbell.
 Knowing the importance of their responsibilities, the “Skid Kidz” have day and night shifts that work through harsh weather conditions ranging from high winds to temperatures rising above 100 degrees.
The Marines spend the little time they have off to catch up on college classes and enjoy a couple of laughs.
“We like to have fun, but when it comes down to it, we handle our business,” said Campbell.
The 13th MEU and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group are currently on a deployment in support of regional and Maritime Security Operations (MSO). In addition to HMM-163 (Rein.), the MEU is composed of its Command Element, Battalion Landing Team 1/1 and Combat Logistics Battalion 13.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Story and Photos by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
 The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit is scheduled to conduct an agricultural wash down, sustainment training and cultural awareness tours for Marines and sailors of USS Boxer (LHD 4) while at a port in the Middle East June 1-8.
After four months of being at sea, dirt and salt water build up on vehicles throughout operations within various areas of U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility.
The wash down ensures no contaminated vehicles or gear will enter the United States upon the 13th MEU’s arrival in San Diego. Pulling the gear off the ship also serves as a good tool to help alleviate maintenance issues that would otherwise be difficult to resolve while on ship. This gives USS Boxer and the 13th MEU the readiness to return home, but more importantly restores all capabilities to conduct missions in any area of responsibility that may arise throughout the remainder of the deployment.
While Marines wash down the vehicles and gear, other elements of the 13th MEU are able to participate in training, both unilateral and bilateral with the host nation.
As Combat Logistics Battalion 13 takes the lead on all wash down procedures, members of Battalion Landing Team 1/1 are scheduled to conduct weapons training in various terrain while the Reconnaissance Platoon refreshes their diving capabilities. Members of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 163 (Reinforced) will provide air support throughout the exercise and conduct live fire training. The Command Element will control the unit’s movement to ensure success of the training exercises that are planned around the area.
Service members will be given a break and an opportunity to participate in cultural awareness tours. The tours give the Marines and sailors a chance to experience one of the most culturally rich areas the world.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Story and Photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina
 The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) completed the weeklong ARG/ MEU Exercise near Camp Lemonier Djibouti May 26.
The exercise was a ship-to-shore training evolution designed to strengthen Navy and Marine Corps amphibious capabilities and involved service members from the USS New Orleans (LPD 18), USS Comstock (LSD 45) and 13th MEU.
“As the MEU we are the floating reserve for U.S. Central Command,” said Lt. Col. Tye R. Wallace, Commanding Officer, Battalion Landing Team 1/1. “In that capacity, we have to be ready to go anywhere in the area of operations and perform any of our standard MEU missions.”
Marines were joined by the French Foreign Legion throughout the exercise, giving both military forces a chance to learn from each other.
“We mainly paired the French Foreign Legion with Alpha Company to do combined exercises,” said Wallace. “They did some small unit infantry training and practiced room search operations to help train French forces.”
 Wallace said Alpha Company conducted other training with amphibious assault vehicles and tanks to familiarize the French with U.S. Marine Corps operations.
“We also brought some of the French Officers and Legionnaires aboard the ship to give them a tour,” said Wallace. “This was to build relationships between the two companies and to show them how we live out on the sea.”
Wallace said he hopes this exercise will be a stepping stone for follow-on MEU’s to do something similar and continue to build working relationships.
 “I think we came out of the exercise stronger than when we came in,” he said. “We have identified any issues and taken corrective action to bring ourselves back up to our full capabilities.”
Weapons Company, BLT 1/1, also tested some of their equipment ashore while conducting field operations.
Staff Sgt. Steven E. Williams, platoon sergeant for Weapons Company, said they wanted to put some rounds down range to keep up to date on marksmanship skills. This gave Weapons Company an opportunity to get some time out in the field to build unit cohesion.
“I know it was really hot out here, but both new Marines and those who have been with us for awhile learned something,” he said. “It was good to get off the ship and get some training in. I think the Marines really enjoyed themselves; I know the French did as well.”
The 13th MEU and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group are currently on a deployment in support of regional and Maritime Security Operations (MSO).
In addition to BLT 1/1, the MEU is composed of its Command Element, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 13.
Monday, May 25, 2009
By Boxer Amphibious Ready Group/13th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs
GULF OF ADEN (NNS) -- The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) began an ARG/ Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise (MEUEX) May 19, in the Gulf of Aden and ashore at Camp Lemonier in Djibouti.
The weeklong ARG/MEUEX is an amphibious ship-to-shore training evolution designed to enhance Navy and Marine Corps amphibious capabilities in unfamiliar terrain and involves the USS New Orleans (LPD 18), USS Comstock (LSD 45) and 13th MEU.
"It is extremely important for Marines and Sailors of a deployed ARG/MEU to conduct exercises while deployed," said LtCol Tye R. Wallace, Commanding Officer, Battalion Landing Team 1/1. "In order to be the most ready force, we must constantly keep our combat skills at their peak."
The exercise demonstrates the ability of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 13th MEU to conduct both large-scale combat operations and humanitarian assistance anywhere in the world and will consist of tactical amphibious landings, bi-lateral training with the French Foreign Legion and tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel (TRAP), as well as other events.
"The MEU is expected to execute any of its assigned missions, from the sea, within six hours of receiving an execute order," said Wallace. "This means going directly into the fight from our ships. No one else does this. This is a unique capability that the Navy / Marine Corps team provides our nation. This allows our deployed naval forces to be relevant, responsive, and ready for action."
The ARG/MEUEX is scheduled to conclude May 26.
The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group is comprised of Amphibious Squadron 5, USS Boxer (LHD 4), New Orleans, Comstock, USS Lake Champlain (CG 57), Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21 Detachment 3, Naval Beach Group 1, Assault Craft Unit 5, Assault Craft Unit 1, Beach Master Unit 1 and Fleet Surgical Team 5.
The 13th MEU is comprised of a Command Element, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced), Combat Logistics Battalion 13 and Battalion Landing Team 1/1.
The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 13th MEU is currently on a deployment in support of regional and Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complements the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Story and photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina
 USS NEW ORLEANS (May 16, 2009) – When Marines are conducting operations it is important they are able to see, especially when it is dark or in smoky conditions. One Marine, assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 13, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit has this responsibility—assisting Marines to see on the battlefield.
Sgt. Felix A. Cervantes is an electro-optical ordinance repairman, one of four with Maintenance Detachment, CLB-13, who works hard to keep Marines’ optics operational aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18).
“My job is the repair of all optical gear, anything that you can sight through on a weapon or vehicle,” said Cervantes from Crown Point, Ind. “We can work on rifle scopes, thermo imagery on rifles and a variety of missile systems.”
Cervantes said he has a broad range of responsibilities with all the different types of optics on the many weapon systems carried by Marines.
“We help out everyone across the Battalion Landing Team (BLT). Anything that’s optical, damaged, broken or that needs to be looked at, they all come to us,” said Cervantes. “The Marines need to see what they are aiming in at and that’s what we do, most of our operations are done at night so you can see how important it is to have working gear.”
Cervantes said the Marine Corps has new gear coming out all the time, and that every quarter it seems as if his job field is giving classes on new gear that has potential to be sent to them.
“We also go and inspect the new gear to give our approval before it is fielded to the Marines,” said Cervantes.
With almost six years in the Marine Corps, Cervantes enjoys what he does. He joined the Marine Corps to do the very thing he is doing, fixing optical gear.
“When I came in I wanted to do something electrical and something with maintenance,” said Cervantes. “I’m happy with what I do.”
Sgt. Mark Greene, assistant maintenance chief with the Amphibious Assault Vehicle platoon attached to BLT 1/1, 13th MEU, said Cervantes is a great asset to support the battalion.
“We have been working with him since February of 2008 during our work-up cycles,” said Greene from Black Mountain, N.C. “He would come down and test our M36E3 sights before we use them. He not only is an asset to us, but to the other units that uses optic capabilities.”
Cervantes says to him, it is important to be that go-to guy. He wants to be the person they call when nobody else can fix the problem.
“He is the guy to go to—he has the knowledge to take care of the equipment,” said Greene. “If you have an issue, he is the man to talk to.”
Greene said he has the reassurance of knowing that the equipment is going to work if Cervantes worked on it.
“When it comes to detailed work on the [weapon] sight he is the guy who has the know-how to take care of it,” Green said. “We can’t shoot unless we have someone like him to take care of our sights—he is a big asset to us.”
“I wouldn’t want to go to anyone else but him.”
photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina
ARABIAN GULF (May 14, 2009) – Sergeant Lucas D. Shook, Middleville, Mich. native and stinger missile gunner with 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion attached to HMM-163 (Rein.), scans the horizon through binoculars aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4). Marines with 3rd LAAD Bn. provide secondary security for the ship each time it conducts a transit through a strait.
 ARABIAN GULF (May 14, 2009) – Corporal Keith J. Zalasar, Woodbridge, N.J. native and stinger missile gunner with 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion attached to HMM-163 (Rein.), inspects a stinger missile aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4). Marines with 3rd LAAD Bn. provide secondary security for the ship each time it conducts a transit through a strait.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Photo by Lance Cpl. Jesse Leger
Name: Cpl. Christopher M. Brandle
Unit: Battalion Landing Team 1/1
Job: Food Service Specialist
Hometown: Clovis, California
Brandle joined BLT 1/1 in December of 2008. He was recently promoted to the rank of Corporal, May 1. Throughout his deployment with the 13th MEU, Cpl. Brandle has maintained a positive, motivated attitude while serving 1,300 Marines and Sailors aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) everyday at sea and even during port visits. He works an average of 14-hour shifts, seven days a week. He is currently attending the Corporal’s Leadership Course aboard the New Orleans.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Story by Staff Sgt. Matthew Holly
Photo by 1st Lt. Curtiss Peck
 MANAMA, Bahrain— Approximately 25 Marines and Sailors from the13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) volunteered at the Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA) May 7.
The Marines and Sailors from the Combat Engineer platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, spent several hours helping walk, wash, feed and play with animals.
1st Lt. Curtiss W. Peck said volunteering at the BSPCA was both a fun and rewarding experience.
“The shelter doesn’t normally have such a large group of volunteers,” said Peck, a Milwaukee native and platoon commander for Combat Engineer platoon. “It worked out to the benefit of the animals being able to get so much attention.”
Peck said it was important to give his Marines an opportunity to get out and be involved in an activity that was constructive for them, the community, and the animals.
But not all the benefits went to the animals; whether it was walking a dog or playing with a cat, a feeling of home came along with this outreach.
“I know that having the chance to interact with animals, especially dogs and cats which we normally keep as household pets in the U.S., would be good for the spirits of the men,” said Peck.
At the end of the day the Marines felt they made a difference by their efforts—they also had a chance to reduce the work for the staff at the shelter for a day or two.
“The workers at the shelter were extremely appreciative of the Marines and the work they put in, and they wanted to know when we could come back next,” said Peck. “The love the animals received made their day too.”
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Story and photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina
 For miles around in swaying waters there is not a bank in sight, only promises of what seems to be a never-ending sea. But Marines with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4) still need the same financial support they would find back on base.
Behind a barred window in the ship’s gym works Cpl. Levi A. Gothard, a financial technician with the Command Element of the 13th MEU, and one of only five Marines who are responsible for the entire MEU’s financial transactions on ship.
On a normal day, Gothard deals with transferring funds in and out of his window and accounting for all the money they have on reserve for port visits.
“We also deal with any pay issues the Marines are having, like split-pay, allotments and Navy cash-cards—they would all come to us,” said Gothard, a Muncie, Ind. native. “Here we deal mostly with Navy cash-cards because this ship operates without hard cash.”
Gothard says when the ship does pull into port, lines form in front of his window and the exchanging of cash begins.
“Accountability is the most important part of my job,” said Gothard. “There is so much money in your possession you have to be able to take care of it. You definitely need to be trustworthy.”
Before Gothard joined the Marines, he attended Indiana University for two years. His goal is to earn his Bachelors degree in accounting.
“I actually wanted this job in the Marine Corps. I love dealing with all the money and numbers,” said Gothard. “I am trying to apply for the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Program (MESEP) as soon as I go back to school next year. Then hopefully go to Officer Candidate School (OCS).”
This program allows enlisted Marines to get a bachelor’s degree and then be commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. Normally, Marines both active and reserve from the ranks of corporal and above are eligible for this program.
Gothard started preparing and planning for his future early on when he joined and believes the skills he will learn here will help him accomplish his goals.
Sgt. Carter R. Hilton, a financial technician from Clinton, MD., who works with Gothard, says his Marine is a hard worker and that he is always willing to learn.
“He is quick to learn new things in this field. With all our operations here, he is not just learning one thing,” said Hilton. “We have to know everybody’s responsibility.”
Only a little over half-way through his first deployment, Gothard said he has already learned a lot in his shop.
“This will definitely benefit me with the experience and leadership skills I will need for the future,” said Gothard. “I want to become an officer in this job field, so hopefully this will be a good step in that direction.”
The 13th MEU and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group are currently on a deployment in support of regional and Maritime Security Operations (MSO).
In addition to BLT 1/1, the MEU is composed of its Command Element; Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced); and Combat Logistics Battalion 13.
TUESDAY, May 12, 2009
Marines with Weapons Platoon, Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, line up on the firing line during training in the Combat Marksmanship Program on the flight deck of USS Boxer (LHD 4) May 11. (photo by Cpl. Robert C. Medina)
 Rear Adm. Michelle Howard, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2, expresses her gratitude towards the Sailors and Marines of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group for their hard work during the past two months while conducting counter-piracy operations off the coast of Africa. (photo by Cpl. Robert C. Medina)
 Marines with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit stand at parade rest while they wait to be addressed by Rear Adm. Michelle Howard, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2, aboard amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). (photo by Cpl. Robert C. Medina)
Story and photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina
 The silence of the morning sea air shattered as Marines with Charlie Company threw a wall of lead at targets off the side of USS Boxer (LHD 4) May 11.
Today’s training in the Combat Marksmanship Program refreshed combat shooting skills Marines need to be successful if engaged in a fire-fight.
“During this training we built stable firing positions so we could effectively get rounds on target in the kill zone to take out the enemy,” said Cpl. Matthew W. Ewy, team leader with Weapons Platoon Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit.
 The CMP training required Marines to perform left and right pivoting maneuvers, quick reaction drills and magazine change drills including both tactical and speed reloads.
“This keeps the weapons handling proficiency up,” said Gunnery Sgt. Xavier P. Altamirano, from Daming N.M., platoon sergeant for weapons platoon. “If you don’t do it you start to lose the skills you were taught; you always want to stay on top of it.”
 Ewy, from St. Paul Park, Minn., said the training is always beneficial even if the Marines think they are good.
“You could always improve on this kind of shoot we do, nobody is perfect every time. We have some good shooters and some that need some work, so there is always room for improvement,” said Ewy.
Altamirano says there is not much for Marines to do aboard ship, so they start to get away from the training they are familiar with on land. Since most of this training is taken away, the Marines have to adapt—this is why conducting CMP training once a month is important.
The 13th MEU and Boxer Amphibious Readiness Group are currently on a deployment in support of regional and Maritime Security Operations (MSO).
In addition to BLT 1/1, the MEU is composed of its Command Element; Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced); and Combat Logistics Battalion 13.
Cpl. Matthew W. Ewy, team leader with Weapons Platoon, Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and native of St. Paul Park, Minn., practices pivoting maneuvers during training in the Combat Marksmanship Program on the flight deck of USS Boxer (LHD 4) May 11.
MONDAY, MAY 11, 2009
Story and Photos by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
Everyday, four times a day, Marines and sailors on food service attendant (FSA) duty serve more than 1,000 service members with the rank of E-6 or below on the mess decks aboard USS Boxer.
FSA duty, or known by Marines as ‘mess duty’ and sailors by ‘cranking’, is a 30-day temporary additional duty where service members are picked by their commands to help cooks prepare and serve food.
Each month, 60 to 70 mess-men are picked from all different units from the 13th MEU and USS Boxer crew.
“It has been a great opportunity to meet and work with new people who I would have otherwise never met,” said mess-man Lance Cpl. Joe W. Rosner, a Marinette, Wis. native and scout grenadier with Light Armored Reconnaissance  Platoon, BLT 1/1, 13th MEU.
For some, this is the first time they share a work environment with the other service.
“I don’t work with Marines in my workspace, so it gives me an opportunity to meet and learn about service members from the Marine Corps,” said Seaman Victoria Alvanos, an operations specialist with USS Boxer.
Mess-men with this additional duty are split into two different groups: galley and mess decks.
The galley is a stuffy room with a few fans blowing around the hot, sticky air, and those workers are responsible for serving the Marine Corps and Navy meal lines.
Some of the many responsibilities mess-men are accountable for are cutting different meats and vegetables, taking out the trash, keeping the galley clean and providing runners to keep the lines stocked with hot food.
The Marines who work the mess deck are responsible for refilling the condiments kept on each table. They are also in charge of taking out the trash, refilling juice machines, cleaning tables and washing trays and silverware, in the scullery.
During meal hours the mess decks are busy.
It’s a constant chore to keep trays and silverware cleaned and back out to the lines in a timely manner, according to Lance Cpl. Mark A. Mckenna, a machine gunner with Weapons Company, BLT 1/1. He also says that their hard work keeps the lines flowing continuously.
Mess duty has a bad reputation, but it is not as bad as everyone thinks.
Sgt. Maurice C. Toole, chief cook with the 13th MEU, said that he has noticed a change in the Marines from when they first come to mess duty and when they leave.
 “A lot of Marines prefer to stay on mess duty rather than going back to their units,” said Toole, from Philadelphia, Penn.
He also said that it was surprising to see that service members want to go beyond their duties and use the ovens and grills to help out the cooks, and to see that they enjoy working in the scullery or in the galley.
“The Marines perform stellar. They help provide quality food service to Marines and Sailors,” says Toole.
Mess duty is no easy task, but with the efficiency, effectiveness and hard work of mess-men working together, the kitchens of USS Boxer are able to produce enough food to sustain all 1,000-plus people who come through its lines.
Story and Photos by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
 A combination of Marines and sailors from various units of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conducted fast-rope training aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4) May 9.
These jumps qualify first time fast-ropers while re-qualifying the prior experienced Marines and sailors, whose training must be refreshed every 90 days.
The training package required service members to fast-rope eight times, four of which were ‘slick runs’, carrying only the required eye protection, gloves, and kevlar for safety precautions. Mission essential gear including flacks, kevlars and weapons, along with other unit-specific equipment, was added for their four other jumps.
Two CH-46E “Sea Knight” helicopters were staged on the flight deck so their back ramps overlooked the lowered elevators in the hangar bay. Cpl. Estuardo A. Zamora, one of the helicopter rope suspension technique (HRST) masters and a team leader with Charlie Company, BLT 1/1, positioned himself in one of the helicopters to ensure safety and help Marines through the qualification.
Zamora, a Fort Worth, Texas native, said that first-timers, or those have not practiced in a while, can get nervous before  sliding out onto the rope from a height of 45 feet. It takes a few times of jumping for them to get comfortable on the rope and build the confidence to descend quickly and efficiently.
Before each Marine or sailor jumps, Zamora recites the command, “strong hand, weak hand, hook the foot, turn and go,” which reminds jumpers what to do with the sixty-foot, almost 2-inch thick rope sliding quickly between their hands.
“Fast-roping is something different from the everyday life of Marines,” says Gunnery Sgt. Daryl A. Noonan, a North Reading, Mass. native and 81mm mortar platoon sergeant with Weapons Company, BLT 1/1. “It keeps them motivated and proficient.”
1st Lt. Patrick J. Zuber, platoon commander of 81mm Mortar Platoon, Weapons Company, BLT 1/1, 13th MEU, and Boston, Mass. native, gives a safety brief to over 100 Marines and sailors before beginning fast-rope training aboard USS Boxer May 9.
Cpl. Estuardo A. Zamora, helicopter rope suspension technique (HRST) master and team leader with Charlie Company, BLT 1/1, 13th MEU, from Fort Worth, Texas, helps Marines and sailors qualify in fast-roping during the training exercise aboard USS Boxer May 9.
Pfc. Brian P. Ortega, an assistant gunner and mortar man with Charlie Company, BLT 1/1, 13th MEU, from Hemet, Calif., practices proper technique while conducting fast-roping qualifications during a training exercise aboard USS Boxer May 9.
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2009
Story and Photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina
A voice announces “Mail orderlies, muster in the hanger bay,” over the ship’s announcement system. Next, a crowd of servicemembers wrap around aircraft, parts and machinery in the ship’s hanger-bay, each having a sense of urgency to receive that special package they have been waiting for.
A human-chain is then formed, transporting all the ship’s mail from the flight deck elevator to the staging area. The mail is then broken down by service and unit, and eventually whittled down to the individual Marine or Sailor.
“Mail does not come everyday,” said Cpl. Dustin M. Matovich, a machine gunner with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. “The longest we have been without mail is around a month.”
When mail does come, it’s a good day for all who receive its special gifts.
“It’s all the little things that we get in the mail that make for a good surprise,” said Matovich, also know by his platoon as “Bam Bam,” from Walkerton, Ind. “There is no other feeling like it.”
Matovich said their days on ship are spent doing weapons maintenance, vehicle maintenance, classroom instruction and physical training. He said they look forward to the occasional mail commodities.
Lance Cpl. Phillip M. Timmons, administrative clerk with the Command Element of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, smiles as he passes a box down the line to the mail staging area during replenishment at sea (RAS) operations here. The sorting of mail usually takes from three to five hours.
Mail is one of the few luxuries Marines look forward to receiving when on deployment. It’s one of the best ways to raise morale of the Marines thousands of miles from home.
“Mail is not the most important thing as far as mission accomplishment, but it’s definitely high up there as far as troop morale,” said Sgt. Hugh Clark, intelligence systems chief with the 13th MEU. “It serves as a reminder from back home that there are people who appreciate what you are doing.”
Clark, from Bronx, N.Y., explained how he at one point had waited for three different mail deliveries for one special package. Each time he had sorted the mail it took between five-to-eight hours.
 “It started getting frustrating, then that turned in to me just laughing about it,” said Clark. “It was to the point where I was just happy to get a bill.”
Once Clark received the package, he was ecstatic.
“It definitely brightened up that day,” said Clark. “Mail is one of those things that makes you feel good—you just know that it makes your life here on ship a little more comfortable.”
SA-330J Puma helicopters transfer mail and essential gear from the Military Sealift Command dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Lewis and Clark (T-AKE 1) to the flight-deck of USS Boxer (LHD 4) during a replenishment at sea (RAS) operation here. The Lewis and Clark is a Combat Logistics Force Underway Replenishment Naval vessel that resupplies ships with ammunition, food, limited quantities of fuel, repair parts, ship store items and expendable supplies.
THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2009
Story and Photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina
Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft (CRRC) operations were conducted today by Marines with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4) to test the reliability of new boat engines.
The goal of the day was to fully submerge new test engines and get them to start.
“We have new multifuel experimental engines from Marine Corps Systems Command,” said Staff Sgt. Scott R. Young, platoon sergeant with Recon. “We were having problems with dropping them in the water and getting them to start.”
The Marines successfully launched the vessels into the water by means of a helo-cast, pushing their boats out of the back of a CH-46E helicopter and jumping in after them.
Young, from San Diego, said the platoon was anxious for the opportunity to test their new engines and are always ready to get off ship for any training they can get.
In addition to testing the engines, the Marines also practiced high-speed cast and recovery from small craft, confined space maneuvering, linking up and breaking away, as well as landing drills on the back of the landing gate of the Boxer.
These skills are just a few of which Recon Marines are capable of performing.
 “The reconnaissance battalions have a long mission essential task list; it encompasses operations from amphibious to ground to airborne missions,” said Capt. David Van Dam, officer in charge of Recon platoon.
In order to uphold levels of proficiency in their unique skill sets, continuous training evolutions in the water and on land are vital to success.
“Being on the ship for an extended period of time makes it really difficult for us to train to the standards that are expected of us,” said Van Dam. “So anytime we have an opportunity to train, we jump on it.”
WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2009
Story and Photos by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
 The only noises coming through the thick, camouflage painted door was the feint laughter of Marines singing the chorus to “Yellow Submarine.” Through that door is the Flight Deck Debark office where Sgt. Derrick S. Thompson and his seven-man Combat Cargo team reminisce on their morning wake-up call.
Thompson, a parachute rigger with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), is also one of the three team leaders with USS Boxer’s (LHD 4) Combat Cargo flight deck platoon.
It is 7:00 a.m. and Thompson, a Rialto, Calif. native, walks around Combat Cargo’s berthing to wake every Marine with the song, “Yellow Submarine.” After the Marines are awake, showered and moving, they begin morning clean-up.
TIME 7:45 a.m.
After clean-up and berthing inspection, Thompson receives a call with a change of flight-quarter hours. His team is the working flight deck unit for the day. After the call, the team heads toward the office to prepare their float-coats and cranials for the rest of the day’s operations.
TIME 8:00 a.m.
Flight-quarters called over the Public Address System (called the 1MC) signals the Marines to the flight deck for a Foreign Object Debris (FOD) walk-down, which is comprised of Marines and sailors walking the entire flight deck picking up any tools, trash or other objects on the ground that could cause damage to machinery.
“FOD walk-down is a boring, painstaking evolution, but it is necessary because it prevents costly damage to the aircraft,” said a Sebring, Fla. native Cpl. Michael L. McKenna, a member of Combat Cargo and a CH-46E crew chief with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 163 (Reinforced), 13th MEU.
TIME 9:00 a.m.
After conducting the FOD walk down, Thompson and his Marines are able to take turns, two at a time, going down to the mess decks to enjoy breakfast before returning to the office for a long day at work.
 TIME 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Their work consists of two major parts, embarking and debarking all gear and personnel being transported by helicopter.
Combat Cargo Marines help unload mail and gear by hand or, if lucky, fork-lifts. They also make a log of each person who comes aboard to file with the ship’s records.
When mail or gear flies out, they pack the helicopters with any items that need to be loaded. When personnel fly out, Marines equip the debarking persons with float coats and cranials, which are safety requirements for any person entering the flight deck. They line the debarking persons on the ramp and when they receive the green light, two members of the team lead them out to their designated helicopter.
 “My favorite part of being on Combat Cargo is being able to see what comes on and goes off the ship,” says Lance Cpl. Josbie M. Morris, a Jacksonville, Fla. native and a member of the Combat Cargo team and an aviation electronics technician with HMM-163 (Rein.), 13th MEU.
Thompson’s team has gotten very close. They have been working together for just over six months now and they have learned how to manage their time and know what is expected of them.
“Our team is like one big family and the other flight deck teams are like cousins to us,” said Thompson.
TIME 12:00 p.m.
During a short break from working, Thompson allows his Marines to eat lunch, two at a time, while other Marines pick up the slack.
TIME 1:00 p.m.
After lunch, the Marines continue working until the operation tempo dies down. They break down into groups of two or three to stay in the office in case they are needed. The groups switch out every two hours until flight-quarters end often late into the night. Only then are they able to lock up the office and have the rest of the day to themselves.
When the day is done and the team ‘hits the rack’, they get up again the next morning and start over.
“Being on Combat Cargo has shown me a different aspect of a MEU deployment and it gives me something to do everyday,” says Thompson. “It gives me a sense of accomplishment since we are the working crew who bring the food and mail aboard, bringing joy to awaiting Marines and sailors.”
THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2009
Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Robert C. Medina
 The waters were calm as Marines with Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon approached their vehicles chained to the deck of a Landing Craft Air Cushion vehicle (LCAC) in the lower section of USS Boxer (LHD 4). Vehicle hatches and hoods are muscled opened—the maintenance begins.
From the deserts of Iraq to the vast Indian Ocean, Marines with LAR, which is an attachment of Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, are prepared for whatever m
ay come their way.
“My platoon was selected from amongst the battalion when we returned from Iraq in our last deployment,” said Gunnery Sgt. Thomas R. Johnson, platoon sergeant. “We have been a platoon for about 16 months now.”
Johnson, from Elbert, Col., said he only has four Marines who haven’t deployed before and as a whole, his M
arines are as skilled and professional as they come.
“We have been together for a while now and we have grown to know each other very well,” said Cpl. Jorge Rangel, gunner with LAR. “We know each other’s capabilities.”
This year the unit is with the 13th MEU, which is currently supporting counter-piracy operations off the coast of Africa. With this unique deployment comes unique care for their equipment.
 “The biggest challenge and the difference for us being aboard ship rather than being on a land-based deployment, is the effect of the salt water on our vehicles,” said Johnson. “The metal is constantly rusting and corroding away, here we have to spend a lot more time conducting preventative maintenance on our vehicles.”
This maintenance is important for operations that could happen at a moment’s notice. Without proper working equipment, the platoon would be ineffective.
“If our vehicles are down then we are not going anywhere,” said Rangel, from San Jose, Calif.
Rangel said life on ship is very different from being on land, but it’s nothing they can’t overcome.
“On the squad level we do tactical decision games,” said Johnson. “Selected individuals do supporting arms training as well.”
The team leaders or vehicle commanders conduct rotary and fixed wing close air support training, as well as artillery and mortarmen training. The crewmen are involved in gunnery training that applies to their job field.
“It’s all stuff that we have done before, we are just sharpening our skills,” said Johnson.
LAR platoon is the main effort for surface TRAP operations (tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel), as well as the motorized raid element.
 “A raid is, in essence, a pre-planned attack and a pre-planned withdrawal. We serve as the motorized, light raid element,” continued Johnson.
“We go in and attack what we are raiding, exploit it for information, then leave quickly.”
Traditional LAR tasks would be route area zone reconnaissance, support attacks and assaults.
“We could do a lot because of our skilled scouts and fire-power from our light armored vehicles,” said Johnson. “We have excellent communications and optics; we could call for air support, artillery or mortars, and could operate on our own for extended periods of time as long as we have the fuel.”
Johnson said logistically they are easy to support; the MEU can use them for just about anything.
“The back-bone of the MEU is the infantrymen, the line companies,” concluded Johnson. “Everything in the MEU is built on supporting ‘the grunt on the ground.’ We are part of that. We support his attack.”
THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2009
Photo by Lance Cpl. Robert C. Medina
Name: Lance Cpl. Zachary W. Varga
Unit: CLB-13, "Lucky 13"
Home Town: Riverside, Calif.
Job Title: Supply Clerk
Varga pokes his head out of a
storage container after retrieving
a box stashed deep inside.
Why did you join the Marine Corps? "I wanted to join the Marine Corps after I noticed a commercial on TV. I wanted to be in the avionics field, I thought it would be cool to work on planes and helicopters."
What do you do in the Marine Corps? "My job is receiving and issuing items to sections of CLB-13. Every day is different because everyone has different needs.”
What are some of your hobbies when you are not at work? "I'm interested in rock climbing, I wanted to start some sort of rock climbing event here on ship...maybe some sort of slack lining."
The overall mission for CLB-13 supply is to provide support to the entire 13th MEU with various materials including military clothing, gear, meals ready-to-eat (MREs), petroleum, oils and lubricants, and repair parts.
SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
Photos by Lance Cpl. Robert Medina and MC1 Timothy Hall
 USS BOXER, At sea (April 8, 2009) -- From a room blocked off by curtains and boards in the gloomy, lower parts of USS Boxer (LHD-4), came yelling, pounding and the noises of someone beating on barrels. Not one person was allowed in for two hours until the next group’s transition into the ‘secret room’.
With a sigh of relief and grim memories of the ‘secret room’ behind them, 27 students from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit proudly graduated the Marine Corps Martial-Arts Instructors Course aboard USS Boxer April 8.
The course was 15 training days which included 10 hours of training every day. Course requirements allow no students to miss more than two days. Three instructor trainers’ used all the time they could to push the Marines toward their breaking points.
Gunnery Sgt. Juan Ynfante, an instructor trainer and communications security manager with 13th MEU said everyday was harder than the previous; pushing them to and past their limits brought mental stress to the students as well, which is part of combat conditioning.
“Although the course is both physically and mentally challenging, it has gotten me more into a combat mindset,” explained Sgt. Gabrielle G. Reynoso of Nampa, Idaho, a student in the course and switching chief with 13th MEU.
Instructor trainers’ goal while coaching students is to improve techniques, skills, and endurance. In turn, this improves  their mental character and combat mindset.
Students spent 18 to 25 hours in a classroom environment learning how to be an instructor, taking quizzes, and having one-on-one weekly counseling with the instructor trainers. Marines spent the remaining time drenched in sweat during physical conditioning, which weaved Marine Corps Martial-Arts Program (MCMAP) skills into multiple squad building exercises.
Physical training was the easy part—the instructor trainers stressed on pushing these Marines to learn control and be able to stay in the fight, said Ynfante, a Mathis, Texas native.
“The hardest part for the Marines is combat cohesion,” he said, when speaking on events that occurred in the ‘secret room’.
Not one of the Marines gave up after spending two hours expending all their energy as they fought to survive the combat cohesion events—an exclusive rite-of-passage which all instructors-to-be must experience.
Even though combat cohesion was tough, Reynoso said it was her favorite part and brought her squad closer together.
“Marines will take what they’ve learned in this course and be able to teach their Marines how to effectively use MCMAP as a weapon of last resort,” she said.
FRIDAY, APRIL 3, 2009
Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Matthew O. Holly
 Elements of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), began conducting Exercise Eastern Maverick 2009, alongside Qatari military forces on March 28, a bilateral training exercise designed to build and improve cooperation between both military forces. During the exercise, U.S. Marines and Sailors will work alongside the Qatari military for approximately two weeks, conducting a number of training exercises, to include small-unit vehicle training and live-fire exercises, as well as pilot training with the Qatari Air Force.
Lt. Col. Tye R. Wallace, commanding officer of Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 1/1 assigned to the 13th MEU, said he looks forward to the operating with the Qatari military during the exercise.
 “Exercises like this one provide important opportunities for us to work more closely together with our friends in the region, thereby helping to enhance understanding, security and stability throughout the Middle East,” he said. “Understanding and communication are vital to a strong friendship, and these exercises are an excellent opportunity for us to further develop both of these with our Qatari friends.”
The first day of the exercise consisted of several classes covering sniper training, grenade handling and the use of a Global Positioning System. Each subsequent day will build upon the skills learned from earlier days.
“They picked it up quickly,” said 1st Lt. Jesus S. Mendez, platoon commander with Combined Anti Armor Team 2, Weapons Company, BLT 1/1. “It was a good opportunity to work with the Qataris to see how our friends operate.” The exercise also allows opportunities for athletic interaction and competition between the two nations. U.S. Marines and Sailors participated in a friendly game of volleyball on the first night of the exercise with several Qataris.
“It is good for integration and to get to know each other in one way or another,” said Maj. Adel Ali Al Saadi, a maintenance officer for the Qatar Maintenance Corps. “It’s a way to break down the barriers.”
 “We should do this every time during exercises – it builds unity and friendship,” said Staff Sgt. Steve D. Oldham, 3rd platoon sergeant for Company B, BLT 1/1. “This helps strengthen relationships with our host nation, which is important.”
“I think it was a great game,” said Pfc. Abdul Rahman, a rocketman in the Qatari Amiri Land Forces. “This created a good team environment for the upcoming training between us and the Marines.”
The 13th MEU is embarked aboard Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group (BOXESG) ships deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to conduct Maritime Security Operations.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2009
NAVCENT PRESS RELEASE
Release # 054-09
By Staff Sgt. Matthew O. Holly
 Marines and Sailors assigned to the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (BOXARG) spent the day playing with children from the Alia School for Early Intervention in Bahrain March, 24.
Approximately 15 Marines and Sailors from USS New Orleans (LPD 18) spent time socializing with special needs children, gardening and playing with children during gym class.
Staff Sgt. John J. Ankney, data chief for Battalion Landing Team 1/1 assigned to the 13th MEU, said that the selfless work being done at the school is very uplifting.
“I was really impressed with the program’s success in integrating the children with special needs into the primary education gym classes,” said Staff Sgt. John J. Ankney. “The teachers have an amazing talent connecting with the children.”
The center was set up in 2004 by the Bahrain Society for Children with Behavior and Communication Disorders and helps students with communication, social, emotional and physical development problems.
“I wanted to volunteer so I could give back,” said Ankney, a Mission Creek, Idaho native, explaining his reasons for volunteering. “More importantly, I wanted to make a difference.”
The Marines and Sailors also helped plant flowers with the children.
 “It was nice to have the opportunity to sit down and garden with the kids,” said Hospital Corpsmen 3rd Class Eli Y. Hernandez, assigned to the 13th MEU’s Battalion Landing Team. “It gave us a chance to connect in a one-on-one environment. Spending time with these children was the bright point of my day!"
The 13th MEU is embarked aboard Boxer USS Boxer (LHD 4), USS Comstock (LSD 45) and USS New Orleans (LPD 18) ships deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to conduct Maritime Security Operations.
MONDAY, MARCH 23, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
Photos by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar/Lance Cpl. Jesse Leger
Kicking and punching his way to five international martial-arts championships, Justin now continues his training in the Marine Corps.
Lance Cpl. Justin T. Stewart has 13 years of training in Korean martial-arts and just about two years as a United States Marine.
Stewart, 20, was born in Augusta, Ga., but moved to Jackson, Miss. only two years later because his mother was a traveling nurse, whose contract bound them into moving often.
 “I was always into Batman, Ninja-Turtles and of course the Power Rangers, so my parents thought [martial-arts] would be good for me,” said Stewart.
When Stewart turned five he went to his first martial-arts class.
“Little did I know then, that it would be a huge part in my life,” he said.
Tae Kwon Do is the martial-arts path he followed, which translated means, ‘the art of kicking and punching.’
In 2001, he moved to Meridian, Miss. where he found the International Tae Kwon Do Alliance (ITA).
He trained with the ITA and traveled to Houston, Texas where he became a certified martial-arts instructor.
Though he studied with multiple Tae Kwon Do federations as he moved around with his mother, his passion for martial-arts never faded. By the time he was 16, Stewart had already become a 2nd degree black-belt and traveled to Seoul, South Korea with one of his instructors to train with the World Tae Kwon Do Federation.
After returning from Seoul, his mother’s contract sent them to Riverside, Calif.
“I stayed in the ITA, I just trained with a different instructor because the organization has schools all over the country,” said Stewart.
He trained with that instructor for only six months before he was able to test for his 3rd degree black-belt.
At 17 years old and a senior in high school, his mother’s contract moved them to Rio Rancho, N.M. where, since there was no ITA school around, he trained with the Action International Martial-Arts Association until his early graduation in December 2006.
After graduating he moved to Corona, Calif. on his own to start teaching full-time at a studio where he used to train.
Working at the studio for almost a year, Stewart decided he wanted to see the world. After a few encouraging words from his brother who is in the Marine Corps, he decided to join the service as an infantryman. He now serves as part of Scout Sniper Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit.
“He is very good [at Tae Kwon Do] and gets as much support from his parents as he does from the platoon,” said Sgt. Jonathan F. Herrera, assistant team leader, Scout Sniper Platoon, BLT 1/1, 13th MEU.
“The Marine Corps has challenged me both mentally and physically which, in turn, has made me a better martial-artist,” said Stewart.
He spends his time working out on his own to refresh his techniques and also practices Tae Kwon Do by teaching the art to his peers.
“He has become a valuable addition to our platoon,” said Herrera. “He has shown us a few of the basic fundamentals of Tae Kwon Do, which we can mix in with MCMAP (Marine Corps Martial Arts Program).”
Though Stewart is an asset to his platoon and the Marine Corps, he does not plan to make it a career.
“I will not reenlist because of the fact I’m a martial-artist at heart and miss it too much, but I will continue to better myself and my techniques in the Marine Corps until that time comes,” said Stewart.
Developed by his passion and heart, Stewart said his inspiration to succeed, in both Tae Kwon Do and the Marine Corps, comes from a famous Chuck Norris quote.
“There are no limits for the person who refuses to accept them.”
THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2009
Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Matthew Holly
 Elements from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducted bilateral training with regional partners, March 5-17, to strengthen relationships and improve interoperability.The exercise included military operations in urban terrain training, urban tactics, techniques and procedures training and tactical vehicle capabilities demonstrations.
“The exercise provided us with a valuable training opportunity and was our first exercise since arriving to the region,” said Staff Sgt. Guadalupe Pineda, platoon sergeant for the Combat Engineer platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th MEU. “We had the chance to hang out with, train and learn from our new friends during this exercise.”
In addition to bilateral training it was an opportunity for the 13th MEU to enhance their operating skills.The exercise not only consisted of military training, but presented an opportunity to test the interoperability between the regional civilian medical facility and the MEU’s casualty evacuation capabilities.
“It’s important to ensure we’re tied in with different civilian medical systems,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Reginald A. Demapelis, assigned to Headquarters and Support Company, BLT 1/1 and a Chula Vista, Calif. resident.
“I was very impressed with the knowledge they had and care they’re able to provide,” added Petty Officer 2nd Class Curtis L. Null, assigned to Headquarters and Support Company, BLT 1/1 and a Knoxville, Iowa native. “They kept me updated throughout the whole process - in the event of a real casualty I’m confident they would be able to provide appropriate care to our Marines and Sailors.”
 During the training, there was plenty of time for Marines and their new friends to interact. Whether it was through conversation, food or fellowship they were constantly taking the time to get to know one another.
“A great deal of friendship has been built up very quickly between us and them,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Andres Velasco. “We share a mutual admiration and have gained a parallel trust between our regional partners.”
The 13th MEU is embarked aboard Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group ships deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to conduct Maritime Security Operations. MSO help develop security in the maritime environment and complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. These operations seek to disrupt violent extremists’ use of the maritime environment to transport personnel and weapons or serve as a venue for attack.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2009
Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
 About 30 Marines from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard the USS Boxer spent the last month learning and improving the skills needed to become more efficient noncommissioned officers during Corporal’s Course; receiving their diplomas March 11.
The course is a little over three weeks long and the Marines were able to learn and succeed in the development of their leadership skills, said Staff Sgt. Oscar S. Ornelas, Corporal’s Course guest speaker and platoon sergeant with Company C, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit.
“The instructors gave us the right information with the right instruction,” said Cpl. Robert L. Thatcher, honor-graduate of Corporal’s Course and squad leader with Company C, BLT 1/1, 13th MEU.
Marines received many classes over counseling, war gaming, hip-pocket training and leadership, just to name a few. They also practiced sword manual and trained in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program once to twice a week, with the last week training everyday, said Thatcher, a Huntington Beach, Calif. native.
Picking the guest speaker is something the students of Corporal’s Course enjoyed.
“We picked Staff Sgt. Ornelas because he made an impact,” said Thatcher.
Ornelas taught only one class, Marine Corps Customs and Courtesies, but the Marines took to his motivation and passion so well, they chose him as their guest speaker.
“I was very passionate and I meant everything I told them,” said Ornelas. “I motivated them and if something I say has an effect on an NCO and they learn something, that is great.”
The Marines, and now graduated members of Corporal’s Course, will be able to put their skills to use, said Thatcher.
Corporal’s Course gave these Marines the ability and knowledge needed to become first-class leaders; following and enforcing customs and courtesies of the traditional Marine Corps – the Marine Corps that has captured America’s hearts and minds for the past 233 years.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2009
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class T.S. Hall
Combined Task Force 151 Public Affairs
USS BOXER, At sea – USS Boxer (LHD 4), home ported in San Diego, Calif., assumed the role as flagship for Combined Task Force 151 (CTF 151), March 8, after arriving in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations as part of a regularly-scheduled deployment.
Established in early January, CTF 151’s mandate is to deter and disrupt piracy in the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean and the Red Sea and currently includes naval forces from the U.S., UK, Denmark and Turkey.
“We’ve had a great deal of success in deterring piracy to this point,” said Rear Adm. Terence McKnight, commander, CTF 151. “We’ve conducted counter-piracy operations on the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio, two guided-missile cruisers, USS Vella Gulf and USS Monterey and now we’re going to continue our mission on Boxer, which continues our line of extremely flexible platforms. Boxer has a lot to offer in the fight against piracy.”
McKnight said that CTF151 has coordinated with many nations to help thwart piracy in the region.
“Piracy isn’t a problem that affects one or two nations,” he said. “It’s a problem that affects the whole world and the free flow of commerce in the world’s waterways. Piracy requires an international solution.”
Capt. Mark Cedrun, Boxer’s commanding officer, said amphibious assault ship provides an exceptional and diverse array of options to commanders in tracking, identifying and deterring piracy at sea.
“We bring unique and very effective tools to the theatre to accomplish any mission or assignment,” he said. “Whether it’s humanitarian assistance or counter-piracy operations, we’re ready.”
Boxer’s embarked units include the Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 5, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21 Detachment 3, Naval Beach Group (NBG) 1, Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5, ACU 1, Beach Master Unit (BMU) 1, Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 5 and the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).
The 13th MEU is comprised of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 163 (Reinforced), Combat Logistics Battalion 13 and Battalion Landing Team 1/1.
Links to external articles:
THE TENSION - http://thetension.blogspot.com/
http://www.military.com/news/article/navy-news/uss-boxer-becomes-flagship-for-ctf-151.html?col=1186032311124
http://www.eaglespeak.us/2009/03/somali-pirates-uss-boxer-now-ctf-151.html
FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2009
Story and photo by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
 USS BOXER, At sea (March 3, 2009) – The CH-53E detachment of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced), with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit left for Al Asad, Iraq March 3 to aid in missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in response to a request from United States Central Command to augment air forces in the region.
Once attached to Marine Aircraft Group 26 of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) at Al Asad Airbase, the detachment will be used for heavy lifting missions, moving combat gear, escorting foreign officials and moving the quick reaction force, in addition to other operations as needed.
“This is bittersweet. Bitter because we fight with them and we don’t want to give them up, but sweet because for those Marines to actually get in a combat theater, is an honor,” said Sgt. Maj. Enrique X. Hines, sergeant major of the 13th MEU.
OIF is a dynamic environment; the situation is constantly changing and will be a good learning and positive experience for every Marine in the detachment, said Maj. Timothy A. Sheyda, Operations Officer for HMM-163 (Rein) and CH-53E detachment officer in charge.
“The Marines in the MEU are envious but full of pride for those Marines to be the first out,” said Hines.
Sgt. Elizabeth L. Wigger, the HMM-163 (Rein.) Intelligence Chief, said that she is sad but jealous to see them go, and wishes she could accompany her friends on their mission.
“They are going to go out there and do great things,” said Wigger.
The detachment will be working 12-14 hour shifts per day, seven days a week while they are in Al Asad, but everyone is confident and excited to employ the training they have received, said Sheyda.
As they left on March 3, the powerful Super Stallions flew past the ship and over onlookers on the flight deck in a side-by-side formation, filling the USS Boxer with their thunderous rotor sounds as the detachment’s ‘farewell fly-by’.
In the meantime, the13th MEU continues current operations in US Central Command in support of regional security and stability, and looks forward to the CH-53E detachment’s return.
SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2009
The following entry is from a Sailor who participated in one of the Community Relations events during the USS Boxer’s port visit in Phuket.
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 "When it was confirmed that we were going to Thailand I was excited to see the southern part of Asia. The ship anchored a forty-five minute ferry ride distance from land and a forty minute MWR bus ride followed to Patong Beach, Phuket. We had already been to Hawaii and Guam and nothing compared to this environment. It was surreal to eat a restaurant, order Thai food and say, “We are eating Thai food in Thailand.” It may seem a little corny, but a group had eaten in a Thai restaurant in Guam a few weeks earlier. This was the “real thing.”
This was our first foreign port and the people and culture had my curiosity brewing. One of the greatest opportunities to go beyond the tourism of any foreign port is through a community relations project (ComRel). The Boxer Chaplains organized four ComRels for the port, and I chose to go to the Thalong National Museum. It was hard to choose because they also had two primary schools and one daycare center. All seemed to have chipping and painting jobs but I thought it would be nice to see a museum and help the people in the same shot.
The morning started with a 0615 muster in the hangar bay which was pretty early for a day off. The day started gaining momentum as we hopped on the ferry, rode the ComRel bus for thirty minutes and arrived at the museum. When we got off the bus, my first impression of the museum was that it was professionally constructed, a little shabby on the grounds and had some apparent need of paint maintenance. The people were the nicest people you would ever meet, but trying to communicate to them was a challenge. “Toilet” did not translate and trying to explain, well, you can see where that would lead. Thankfully, we had an English speaking coordinator who supplied us with everything we needed to do the job, including directions to the toilet. We chipped and painted in different locations until 1230, and then they provided some Thai food and some entertainment to cap off the events of the day. The food was awesome. I’m a picky eater, but this stuff was good. The entertainment portion was interesting, because it included Thai dancers and three volunteers from our group. I was one of them. After they danced these graceful moves in very colorful Asian costumes, they asked us to try and join them. I looked like a goof-ball but it was definitely something I will always remember.
This was my first foreign-port ComRel, and I can see why so many shipboard personnel fight to beat the quotas for sign-up. I believe it helps any soul to see how different cultures live in their environment. It creates a broader frame of reference to how blessed we are to live in America. Also, the culture evidences the most important physical blessing of all. This one blessing seems to magnify itself in these cultures and even more so when material things are not the focus of daily life. The world shares a common blessing, and that is family. ComRels make you count your blessings, but they also create the satisfaction of helping someone in need. It felt so good to spend my time not only drinking in the culture of the people but making a difference in their lives that neither those we helped nor I will ever forget. I definitely look forward to signing up for the next ComRel event. Semper Fi."
-- An anonymous Sailor
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class T.S. Hall, USS Boxer (LHD 4) Public Affairs
PHUKET, Thailand – Sailors and Marines from amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) and the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) arrived in Phuket, Thailand Feb. 18 for a scheduled port visit, and rest and relaxation before continuing operations in support of regional and maritime security.
Marines and Sailors are also scheduled to volunteer more than one hundred hours of their off-duty time to participate in several community relations (COMREL) projects at local schools.
Boxer’s Command Chaplain Lt. Cmdr. Phil Creider said that COMREL’s are a way to help the people in our host nations.
“We provide the people, the muscles, and the energy to do good. Together, this forms one of the very best ways to demonstrate America's concern for all of our neighbors and our desire to be the best help that we can be.”
Storekeeper 1st Class Sourideth Soumphonphakdy said Thais are anxious to make new friends. A former resident of Thailand, Soumphonphakdy says it feels like he’s going home.
“The culture is familiar to me and it’s where I grew up. It brings back great memories because the people here are so nice and are excited to greet Americans.”
Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group (BOXESG) Commodore Capt. Pete Brennan said that Sailors and Marines are looking forward to experiencing the culture of Thailand.
“Thailand provides a unique cultural experience that our Sailors and Marines will value for a lifetime,” said Brennan.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2009
Photos and Story by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
 THE MALDIVES (Feb. 24, 2009) —Marines and Sailors with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group provided community members of the Maldives with dental care and informational classes Feb. 20-23.
Dental care was given to both children and adults to improve their general state of dental health. Classes were also given to the community members to aid in providing the knowledge needed to keep a healthy smile.
In the dental building, the Navy staff was continuously busy with teeth cleanings, sealants and extractions; helping about 400 people in just four days, said Navy Lt. Angela M. Roldan-Whitaker, the 13th MEU dental officer.
The community members first went through a general screening process before they proceeded to the hygiene area to have their teeth flossed, brushed and treated with fluoride. If necessary, they were sent to the surgery room where dentists conducted extractions, said Jonathan N. Tofts, a Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class with Battalion Landing Team 1/1.
“We were recommended to provide the people with preventive education, so that’s what we aimed for,” said Roldan-Whitaker.
The classes were geared towards six and seven year-old children, but many adults attended as well. The dental staff used props with their instruction and gave out toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss to the participants. They also provided fluoride treatments for everyone before the class ended.
 “They get this kind of [dental] treatment once in a lifetime because we have the capabilities to treat [them],” said Tofts.
The Maldivian’s friendly chatter, kind eyes and big smiles showed how pleased they were to have the U.S. military members in their country, said Tofts.
“We were happy. We all pulled together like a team,” said Roldan-Whitaker.
After finishing with the clinic, the dental staff packed up and walked out to the boats, followed by a crowd of people who stood on the pier, smiled, said their thank-yous, and waved the dental staff goodbye.
Photo and Story by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
THE MALDIVES (Feb. 24)—Marines and Sailors from USS New Orleans (LPD-18), USS Comstock (LHD-45) with elements from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group spent Feb. 19-24 in the Maldives to provide medical supplies and information and training in order to aid the Maldivian people.
U.S. Navy medical staff gave multiple basic Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation classes to the community members and two medical officers utilized rooms in the hospitals to see patients for basic medical care.
 Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Cyrena L. Williams with USS Comstock, taught classes which enabled more than 80 people the ability to perform CPR.
“My goal was to teach basic first aid and CPR general knowledge to the people,” said the Livermore, Calif. native.
The students were delighted to have the medical team there--they asked many questions and everyone participated in the practical applications, said Williams.
Navy Lt. Martin W. Lunceford, the battalion surgeon for Battalion Landing Team 1/1, was one of the volunteering medical officers who saw patients.
Doctors saw men, women and children from the ages of four to 89 and were able to prescribe medicines and treatments to more than 100 community members, said Lunceford.
“The people are very warm and excited. I feel like a celebrity,” said Lunceford.
Mr. Faisal Ibrahim, the manager of five health centers in the Maldives, is extremely pleased with the Navy medical staff as well as the Marines who supported the event.
The medical staff also donated five adult and two infant CPR mannequins, guides and study materials, and eight medical books to add to their library.
“We are very happy with the donations; we would not have been able to get those items on our own,” said Ibrahim.
Experiences such as these can be incredibly rewarding for service members who participate and provide unique benefits to community members in the Maldives.
“This is the highlight of my career,” said Lunceford.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009
The following is a press release from the US Embassy in Colombo, Sri Lanka about our time in the Maldives.
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Embassy of the United States of America
Colombo
PRESS RELEASE
U.S. Medical and Military Teams Work Together with Maldivian Counterparts to Enhance Skills and Goodwill
Colombo, February 27, 2009: - A team of United States Navy and Marine medical professionals, working with colleagues in the Maldivian public health care system and armed forces, completed a medical and dental assistance mission from February 20 to 23 that benefited residents of Naifaru, Lavivani Atoll.
 This medical outreach initiative in Maldives by the Thirteenth U.S. Marine Expeditionary Unit (13th MEU) is the latest in a series of ship visits by U.S. forces intended to strengthen bilateral ties and foster goodwill between the United States and the Republic of Maldives.
The American group worked side-by-side with Maldivian medical personnel to augment local health care systems. Over five days the medical teams treated 268 medical patients, conducting examinations, giving vaccinations, and providing classes on emergency medical procedures. The dental team assisted a total of 400 patients with extractions of non-viable teeth, as well as training staff and giving presentations on dental hygiene to local students. Visitors received toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss as encouragement to continue healthy dental hygiene.
On February 19 and 20, a team of U.S. military personnel delivered donations of educational and recreational supplies to 41 children with special needs at the Care Society Child Development Center in Male’ and to 42 children at the Neglected Children’s Home in Vilingili. Gifts included children’s books, pens and pencils, writing pads, and assorted toys.
In addition to the medical assistance and community outreach, U.S. forces from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Maldivian National Defense Force (MNDF) conducted joint exercises to develop professional skills and interoperability on Addoo Atoll. Training included classes in the U.S. Marine Corps Martial Arts Program, a Combat Lifesaver Course given by U.S. Navy corpsmen, and MNDF members teaching U.S. Marines jungle survival skills.
During the scheduled training events, MNDF, U.S. Marine and U.S. Navy personnel were called on to assist in a real-world medical evacuation when a local man who suffered a severe head injury in a traffic accident required emergency transportation. The man was in a life-and-death situation due to limited local medical facilities and the distance he would have to travel by boat to receive appropriate care.
“The call came in and we wanted to do everything in our power to ensure this man did not die because of something we were unable to do,” said a U.S. Marine Corps spokesperson.
Thanks to the quick reaction and immediate planning efforts by joint MNDF-U.S. Military teams, U.S. Marine helicopters were able to transport the victim to hospital in Male’ within two hours of the initial request.
The United States hopes to continue these bilateral training and medical support opportunities in various Maldives locations in future.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2009
Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar
USS NEW ORLEANS, At sea -- While learning
new techniques on ship, Christopher easily flips another Marine over his shoulder and onto the ground during martial arts training.
 Christopher R. Boyette, a tank crewman with Company A, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, began a course, along with about 30 other Marines, with hopes to ascend through the different colors and skill sets of belts within the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP).
The training started mid-January and takes about two to three hours per day, Monday through Saturday. The course begins at the lowest level and will allow the students to keep going up through the syllabus until they reach their max belt for their rank. Some may choose to continue through to black belt.
“I try and make the course physically challenging,” said Capt. Brian R Von Kraus, commanding officer of Company A, BLT 1/1. “I show them new techniques and new ways of physical training.”
Not only are the students learning and upgrading their MCMAP belts, they are also given courses in ground-fighting, boxing and kickboxing, said Von Kraus, who is one out of three instructors involved with the course.
“I haven’t had anything this physically intense since boot camp,” said Boyette.
Everyone is learning new moves to prepare themselves for challenges they might face as well as improving on the skills they have already acquired. All the participants seem to enjoy the course as well, said Von Kraus. “I think it is a good thing for Marines on ship,” said Boyette. “To help, not only on the battlefield, but to keep them in shape while on deployment,” said Boyette.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2009
Editorial by Staff Sgt. Matthew O. Holly
Aboard US Naval vessels it is a common practice to serve “real” ice cream after extended periods at sea or on special occasions. On one previous such occasion, I saw Sailors and Marines alike serving up their junior counterparts, in most cases, scoops [mounds] of the cold stuff, with choice toppings. Everyone, the servers, the recipients or anyone within 100 feet of the social, had big smiles on their faces. After closer examination of these people, it seemed these permanent grinning expressions were coming from a subconscious place, a place where sweeter memories prevailed—at least, that’s how I perceived it.
 Anyway, I started thinking of what ice cream meant to me. When I think of ice cream, I think of many things. Maybe I imagined walking through the zoo with my friends, visiting an old-fashioned ice cream parlor with my parents or grandparents, hanging out at the park with my kids or perhaps just hanging on the couch, watching my favorite program with my wife. As I write, my mind’s eye points to one common factor in all previous stated events—Family.
So I have to ask myself, “What is it about ice cream that makes most people happy [barring those who have allergic or adverse reactions to dairy products]?” And when I say a most, I’m saying 1.6 billion gallons produced annually in America alone. We all know it’s a comfort food that has no cultural or ethnic barriers in the United States, or in any semi-developed country for that matter. I mean, everyone loves ice cream. So is it safe to say most people share these same memories? If so, could it also be assumed when service members have ice cream, they are conjuring up memories of times past, times with their families and friends. I would like to think so…. But until we actually find an answer, we’d like to say: Family and friends, take heart, your Marines and Sailors are thinking of you on those sweet, ice cream occasions.
Keep serving it up Skipper!
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2009
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2009
Photo by Lance Cpl. Jesse Leger
 USS BOXER, At Sea – The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conducted sustainment training on the U.S. Territory of Guam in U.S. Forces Pacific Command, Jan. 31 - Feb. 5, to enhance their military skills prior to entering the Central Command area of operations as part of their scheduled six-month deployment as the nation’s force in readiness.
The 13th MEU seeked to maximize training opportunities in unfamiliar sites in Guam, which offers terrain that builds unique skill sets that enhance the MEU’s ability to work in a myriad of environments.
A few highlights from the training schedule included:
February 1: The off-loading of more than 80 vehicles, 649 tons of equipment, and 330 Marines at Reserve Craft Beach by Landing Craft Air Cushion vehicles from USS Boxer (LHD-4), and an external lift of an M777 Lightweight 155mm Howitzer by a CH-53E helicopter. The 13th MEU will also conduct a simulated helicopter raid at the Naval Communication Station with Company C, Battalion Landing Team 1/1.
 February 2-3: Patrolling operations, explosive ordnance disposal training and Jaws-of-Life training, similar to that of our nation’s fire and rescue personnel, by the Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel (TRAP) team.
These events exercised the MEU’s ability to conduct anything from large-scale combat operations to humanitarian assistance anywhere around the world. While transiting through the Western Pacific region, the MEU serves as the nation’s “9-1-1 force”; able to execute any mission, any time.
Following the sustainment training, Marines were given on-shore liberty to gain both a cultural and historical appreciation of the island of Guam.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Megan E. Sindelar
USS NEW ORLEANS, At Sea – With all of the advancements made towards improving the quality of life while under way, it is also important to remember to create better training tools.
The New Orleans is the first commissioned, San Antonio Class ship to include the Indoor Simulated Marksmanship Trainer system (ISMT). The ISMT system aboard USS New Orleans, run by the ship’s combat cargo section, consists of two screens with eight different weapon systems ranging from small arms to heavy machine guns. The ISMT is being used for the Navy weapon’s qualifications as well as Marine Corps training while at sea.
It can be difficult to maintain basic rifleman skills, but the ISMT, in addition to training conducted throughout the deployment, only increases the opportunities to build on those skills while aboard ship for months at a time.
Not many have used the program so far because the ship is still in its early stages of deployment and everyone is still settling down, but eventually Marines and sailors will start using the ISMT as the deployment goes on, said Gunnery Sgt. Ty W. Jones, the senior combat cargo assistant for USS New Orleans.
Due to weather, flight operations and the sea state, it can be a challenge to find opportunities to fire weapons.
“While at sea, it is hard to conduct live fire exercises,” explained Staff Sgt. Tony Serrano, a combat cargo assistant with USS New Orleans. “This system will allow for real-life combat scenarios and familiarization with the weapons—it is practice that can only help and benefit Marines [and sailors].”
“I think it’s a good thing to have aboard,” said Lance Cpl. Greg E. Lane, a rifleman with Company A, Battalion Landing Team 1/1. “There’s a wide variety of weapons to shoot—I’m enthusiastic about it.”
By having the ISMT aboard, USS New Orleans is setting the footprints for the San Antonio Class, modern day ships.
“This [training] can save lives,” said Serrano.
Story by Lance Cpl. Megan E. Sindelar
USS BOXER, At Sea--A Marine with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit was selected to receive the 2008 Copernicus Award which recognizes individual contributions to naval warfare in command, control, communications, computers and intelligence, information systems and information warfare.
Major Gregory A. Wyche, the communications officer for the 13th MEU, found out during the first week of his current deployment that he was one of three Marines selected to receive the award, which is sponsored by the U.S. Naval Institute and the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA).
Wyche, a Pensacola, Fla. native, said he does not know why he was selected for this award, as it was his Marines who did all the great work.
“I think he definitely deserves this award; he is good at his job and very knowledgeable,” said Lance Cpl. Brandon S. Moubray, a network administrator with the 13th MEU.
A panel of Navy judges review nominations sent in from Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard Commanding Officers or Officers in Charge. The judges choose from nominations of active duty servicemembers and civilians with C4I/IT-related jobs and present them with the award at an annual conference held in San Diego each winter.
The award was established in 1997 by the then President and Chief Executive Officer of AFCEA International, retired Air Force Lt. Gen. C. Norman Wood, and the late Vice Adm. Art Cebrowski, a Navy communications officer.
It was named after the Copernicus Architecture; the blueprint for the future C4I structure of the Navy.
Constantly mentoring, Wyche has more than 50 Marines under his charge, said Moubray.
Wyche feels privileged to receive this award, but he still feels that it was his Marines’ work and that they should receive the credit.
“There are no individual awards in a team sport. It’s like in football, if the offensive line doesn’t block, it’s hard for the quarterback to look good. If the wide receivers don’t run good routes and catch a poorly thrown ball every now and then, it’s hard for the quarterback to look good. If the defense doesn’t keep the other team off the scoreboard, it’s hard for the quarterback to look good. If the running backs don’t establish a viable running game, it’s hard for the quarterback to look good. So this isn’t my award, it is the offensive lines, the receivers, the defense and the running backs. This is the team’s award,” said Wyche.
MONDAY, JANUARY 19, 2009
 One week has already come and gone. As our Marines and sailors begin to settle in to the ship-life routine, we couldn’t be more excited about beginning our seven month journey at sea.
And at sea we are… over the past several days, USS Boxer and company have been beating through some treacherous weather. Ocean swells have been at times between 12-14 feet high, forcing those with lighter stomachs down and out of the fight.
Though weather has been a constant battle, we have been successful in conducting sustainment training for several of the units. Charlie Co., 1/1, executed a helicopter insert on the Big Island of Hawaii, followed by platoon live fire attacks on the 16th and 17th and a 10k hike on the 18th. Highlights from training earlier in the week include the Force Reconnaissance platoon’s open water training, scout snipers’ stalking, tracking and immediate action drills, and the 81mm mortorman’s multiple live fire shoots.
Though HMM-163 (Rein.) experienced the most issues when the weather went south, they were able to complete their deck landing re-qualifications and shoot a few rounds of live fire close air support with the Cobras and Hueys.
So what do we do when we’re not training or fighting? We’re preparing. On any given day Marines and sailors are hitting the gym, participating in Brazilian Jiu Jitzu, boxing, or martial arts classes, or taking a break and singing karaoke with the Fun Boss on the mess decks. Needless to say, they find ways to keep themselves occupied.
What’s next for the 13th MEU? Sorry, can’t say. What we can say is that everyone is looking forward to it, wherever and whatever “it” may be. Until next time…
Story by Sgt. Wayne Edmiston
Photo by Staff Sgt. Matthew O. Holly
USS BOXER, At Sea (Jan. 15, 2009) – The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit continues to lead the way for the Marine Corps. It was the first MEU to deploy with the Landing Craft Air Cushion vehicle, the first to deploy with a Marine Special Operations Command Company and now, this year, the first to deploy with the UH-1Y Huey helicopter, a revamped version of the Vietnam-era war machine, the UH-1N.
The new Huey is fully modernized with new parts, avionics and a four-bladed rotor making it a faster, more powerful and better asset on the battlefield.
“The Yankee brings back the Huey we had back in Vietnam. It can load fuel, troops, ammo and carry them to the zone while remaining on station,” said Capt. Jamie M. Glines, a UH-1Y pilot with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced), known as the “Evil Eyes.”
Prior to the addition of the Yankee, its predecessor, the UH-1N, was hindered in its ability to perform in combat.
“The November was underpowered and a lot of times we had to sacrifice fuel, troops or ammo in order to complete the mission,” Glines explained.
 From a mechanical standpoint, the new helicopter’s parts are state-of-the-art and make it easier to conduct maintenance and keep the “Yankees” flying.
Staff Sgt. Zachary R. Marks, a UH-1Y mechanic with HMM-163 (Rein.), said the new helicopter’s improved technology increase the durability and overall life of the aircraft.
Another improvement is the sharing of common parts with other attack helicopters.
With the upcoming testing and release of the new AH-1Z Cobra attack helicopter, which is designed to use some of the same parts as the Yankee, it will be easier, logistically and mechanically, for future air combat Marines. The underlying question, however, is how it’s going to benefit the operational force.
“This aircraft is providing more time on station, provides more capabilities to the Marines on the ground. The parts commonality between this aircraft and the up-and-coming AH-1Z will improve the up status of aircraft, which means there are more assets,” Marks explained. “It’s hands down more power and more fight to bring into battle.”
“We can go in and do a [casualty evacuation] if we need to and not have to worry about power anymore. We can get in and get out quick to recover a small team such as a [reconnaissance] team,” said Sgt. Vincent P. Clarkston, a crew chief on the UH-1Y.
Overall, many of the Marines with HMM-163 (Rein.) are anxious to bring the utility helicopter into real world operations—the true test of its enhanced capabilities.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Matthew O. Holly
The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit departed Naval Station San Diego Friday, January 9, 2009, for a six-month deployment as the nation’s ready-reserve force within the Pacific and Central Commands.
Comprised of approximately 2,200 Marines and Sailors stationed at Camp Pendleton and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., the MEU is prepared to support a variety of operations in the western pacific; from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to decisive combat operations.
The MEU serves as the landing force for Expeditionary Strike Group 5, and completed its final certification exercise, Dec. 12. Over the past several months, the Marines and Sailors completed a series of exercises, including Training in An Urban Environment, MEU Exercise (MEUEX) and Expeditionary Strike Group Integration.
Battalion Landing Team 1/1, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron – 163 (Rein.), and Combat Logistics Battalion – 13 serve as the ground combat element, aviation combat element, and logistics combat element, respectively. They joined the command element last May to start a rigorous training cycle in preparation for the deployment.
The MEU is embarked on USS Boxer (LHD 4), USS Comstock (LSD 45), and USS New Orleans (LPD 18).
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NAVAL BASE SAN DIEGO, Calif. (Oct. 7, 2008)-- A Bronze Star with Combat V was awarded to a team leader with Reconnaissance and Surveillance platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, on Oct. 7 for his actions taken in Zaidon, Iraq, Feb. 14, 2006.
Staff Sgt. Joshua S. Negron was awarded for the bravery and courage he displayed while aiding and saving the life of an Iraqi interpreter attached to his team during an intense firefight with enemy combatants.
“It is very awkward to be called a hero; I just happened to be there at the right moment,” says Negron.
At the time, Negron was a reconnaissance Marine with Charlie Company, 1st Recon Battalion. His team patrolled the area to gather information from locals concerning an increase in known enemy improvised explosive device activity.
The Marines were ambushed from the rear in the southwest part of the village, Negron said.
When he turned around, he immediately saw his teammates as they ducked past the line of fire and ran to safety. Negron ensured his Marines found cover before he returned fire and ran for protection himself. A round ricocheted off Negron’s helmet as he fired in the direction of the insurgents when he heard a yell.
Mike, Negron’s native Iraqi interpreter, called out to him for help. Negron looked over to him, immediately noticed blood seeping through Mike’s pants, ran to his side and began first-aid.
The rest of the platoon moved in to reinforce and drive the surrounded enemy combatants away, Negron explained.
Negron’s actions enabled them to complete their mission and finish with all of his comrade’s lives, according to the citation.
“I just did my job. Anyone else on my team would have done the same thing if standing in my place,” Negron concluded.
13th MEU flexes urban skills at TRUEX MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE RIVERSIDE, Calif (Sept. 18, 2008) –Marines with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced) prepare a UH-1Y helicopter for flight before a combat mission here. Marines with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit conducted Training in a Realistic Urban Environment exercise as part of the MEU's workup cycle. All major elements of the MEU in coordination with Marine Special Operations Company D conducted the exercise to prepare the unit to operate as a Marine Air Ground Task Force ashore.
One of the highlights of the MEU workup cycle is the new operational capabilities of the UH-1Y. The 13th MEU will be the first unit to deploy with the new Huey, which offers a grander scope of combat support functions than its predecessors. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Matthew O. Holly/13th MEU) (Released)
Fighting Thirteenth shows battlefield power during MEUEX
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (August 21, 2008) – Marines with Company C , Battalion Landing Team 1/1 clear a stairwell during a raid. The raid was performed as part of Marine Expeditionary Unit Excercise; the first major exercise in the MEU's workup cycle. (Photo by Sgt. Wayne Edmiston/13th MEU)(Released)
LAR platoon brings vital asset during MEUEX
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (August 21, 2008) – Marines with Light Armored Reconassaince platoon , Battalion Landing Team 1/1 perform a surface tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel. The TRAP was performed as part of Marine Expeditionary Unit Excercise; the first major exercise in the MEU's workup cycle. (Photo by Sgt. Wayne Edmiston/13th MEU)(Released)
Company C shows leadership on battlefield
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (August 21, 2008) – Marines with Company C , Battalion Landing Team 1/1 rehearse for a raid. The raid is part of the Special Operations Training Group Package and Marines with the BLT conducted the training to become proficient in one of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit's core competencies. (Photo by Sgt. Wayne Edmiston/13th MEU)(Released)
Alpha Company, AAVs raid SOTG courses
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (July 28, 2008) – Marines with Company A and Amphibious Assault Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1 conduct raids as part of the Special Operations Training Group Package here. Marines with the BLT conducted the training to become proficient in one of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit's core competencies. (Photo by Sgt. Wayne Edmiston/13th MEU)(Released)
BLT 1/1 sharpens skills with TRAP
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (July 17, 2008) – An light armored vehicle scout with Battalion Landing Team 1/1 secures a landing zone to conduct and emergency medical evacuation here. Marines with BLT 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit performed surface tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel training as part of the Special Operations Training Group package for the MEU.
"For the Marines, its really good training because it shows them how to work with the corpsman to work with casualties so we can perform a quick and flowing (evacuation)," explained Seaman Johnathan Sirlin, a hospital corpsman with Company B, BLT 1/1. (Photo by Sgt. Wayne Edmiston/13th MEU) (Released)
13th MEU Marines show colors in Anaheim Independence Day celebration
ANAHEIM, Calif. (July 4, 2008) – Marines with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit march in an Independence Day Parade for the City Anaheim. The city formally adopted the 13th MEU March 29. During the Parade, Marines met with city council members and mingled with local citizens to show their support for the city.
"It's the least we can do. It's a way we can give back to the community for adopting our unit and show our support," said Cpl. Alan J. Monterossa, a transportation management clerk with the 13th MEU." (Released)
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BLT 1/1 trains future leaders for diverse battlefield
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (May 29, 2008) – “The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not followers,” said Ralph Nader, former presidential candidate and American political activist. The Marine Corps’ production of leaders is done from training day one at recruit training: where leaders of today form the leaders of tomorrow.
At the Tactical Small Unit Leadership Course, squad leaders and platoon commanders with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division passed their knowledge down to arguably the most important leader in an infantry platoon – the fire team leader. (Photo by Sgt. Wayne Edmiston/13th MEU) (Released)
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Fighting 13th kicks off training camp with Gunfighter Course
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (April 2, 2008) – “The deadliest weapon in the world is a U.S. Marine and his rifle!” said Army General John “Blackjack” Pershing, the general of the armies during World War I. Nearly 100 years later, when Marines with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit lined up at Range 111 their job was to confirm the General’s words as a fit beginning to the MEU’s “Training Camp.” (Photo by Sgt. Wayne Edmiston/13th MEU)(Released)
Command Element thrusts into MCMAP
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (March 7, 2008) -- Marines from the 13th MEU command element shimmied their way down rails on the Camp Del Mar obstacle course here this morning while preparing for a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) session. Following the training, which lasted the duration of the morning, Marines and family members were treated to a unit barbecue and softball match. (Photo by Sgt. Wayne Edmiston/13th MEU)(Released)
Anaheim adopts 13th MEU
 MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (Feb. 14, 2008) – The bustling Southern California city of Anaheim formally adopted the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit in a ceremony March 29 at the Anaheim Downtown Community Center. Though the adoption process was completed in October, the ceremony serves as a high-visibility statement of the city's commitment to the welfare of the unit.
Benefits to the adoption include community military awareness and deployed service member support for unit Marines and family members, according to the 13th MEU Public Affairs Officer.
Stay tuned to this Web site for updates. For more information about Anaheim, visit the city Web site at www.anaheim.net.
Coffman Takes Command of Fighting 13th
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (Jan. 15, 2008) – Colonel Carl E. Mundy III relinquished command of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit command element to Col. David W. Coffman in a ceremony Jan. 11 at the Camp Del Mar Parade Deck here.
Mundy, who assumed command of the 13th MEU in July 2006, has moved on to serve in the Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Colonel David W. Coffman, current unit commander, previously served as Future Operations Officer for I Marine Expeditionary Force following a tour as commanding officer of Marine Medium Helicopter Sqaudron-161 from August 2003 to May 2005.
Coffman graduated with honors from both The Basic School and Amphibious Warfare School. He earned a Masters in National Security and Strategic Studies with highest distinction while attending the College of Naval Command and Staff at the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, and completed a TLS-equivalent fellowship with Rand Corporation in Santa Monica, Calif. |
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